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Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids with a defined chemical composition and crystalline structure. They are composed of atoms, which are the basic building blocks, and these atoms are arranged in specific patterns to form minerals. The most common particles in minerals include elements such as silicon, oxygen, aluminum, iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which combine in various ways to create different mineral types. The arrangement of these atoms gives each mineral its unique physical and chemical properties.

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2w ago

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What do the particles that make up minerals join to form?

Particles that make up minerals join to form crystals. Crystals are solid structures with a repeating pattern of atoms or molecules.


What is the generic term for very small loose particles of hard broken rock or minerals?

The generic term for very small loose particles of hard broken rock or minerals is "sediment." These particles are created through the process of erosion, weathering, and deposition.


How can fine particles be formed into rock without cement?

Fine particles can be formed into rock without cement through a process known as lithification, where the particles are subjected to high pressure and temperature over a long period of time. During lithification, the particles are compacted and cemented together by natural minerals or through the crystallization of minerals within the particles themselves, resulting in the formation of a cohesive rock mass.


Why is helium mixed with radioactive minerals?

Helium is produced as a byproduct of radioactive decay in minerals like uranium and thorium. These minerals contain alpha particles, which are essentially helium nuclei. As these alpha particles are emitted during decay, they capture electrons from their surroundings to become helium atoms. This is why helium is often found mixed with radioactive minerals.


Shale rock is made of what 2 things?

Shale rock is primarily composed of clay minerals and small particles of other minerals like quartz and calcite. These minerals are compacted together over time to form the distinct layers of shale rock.