Mineralogy

This section of the textbook deals largely with crystallography and optical mineralogy. We also revise and expand upon your existing knowledge of the physical properties of minerals.

Physical Properties of Minerals

Learning Outcomes

• Revise the physical properties of minerals

Crystallography

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the definition of a mineral, unit cell and crystal lattice
• Recognise symmetry elements
• Classify minerals into one of the 7 crystal systems based on symmetry
• Predict some physical properties of minerals based on their structure

Optical Properties of Minerals

Learning Outcomes

• Correct use of a petrographic microscope
• Describe optical properties of minerals in thin section
  • in Plane Polarised Light
  • in Cross Polarised Light
• Classify (and identify) minerals observed in thin section