Problem 1
Using the geologic definition of mineral as your guide, determine which of the items in this list are minerals and which are not. If something in this list is not a mineral, explain. a. Gold nugget b. Seawater c. Quartz d. Cubic zirconia e. Obsidian f. Ruby g. Glacial ice h. Amber Refer to the periodic table of the elements (Figure 3.5 ) to help answer Questions 2 and 3 .
Problem 2
Assume that the number of protons in a neutral atom is 92 and its mass number is 238 . a. What is the name of the element? b. How many electrons does it have? c. How many neutrons does it have?
Problem 3
Which of the following elements is more likely to form chemical bonds: xenon (Xe) or sodium (Na)? Explain why.
Problem 5
Gold has a specific gravity of almost \(20 .\) A 5 -gallon bucket of water weighs 40 pounds. How much would a 5 -gallon bucket of gold weigh?
Problem 7
Each of the following statements describes a silicate mineral or mineral group. In each case, provide the appropriate name: a. The most common member of the amphibole group b. The most common light-colored member of the mica family c. The only common silicate mineral made entirely of silicon and oxygen d. A silicate mineral with a name that is based on its color e. A silicate mineral that is characterized by striations f. A silicate mineral that originates as a product of chemical weathering
Problem 9
Do an Internet search to determine what minerals are extracted from the ground in order to manufacture the following products: a. Stainless steel utensils b. Cat litter c. Tums brand antacid tablets d. Lithium batteries e. Aluminum beverage cans
