How do scientists classify minerals?

1 Answer
Feb 21, 2016

Into the Dana classification system that consists of about 9 families of minerals that have similar composition and structure.

Explanation:

Native elements: such as metals, semi-metals and non metals (1)

Sulphides and Sulphosalts: Sulphur and metals ores (2 - 3)

Oxides and Hydroxides: Metal and Oxygen ie: corundum (4 - 8)

Halides: Metal and Halogen elements: ie: flourite (9 - 12)

Carbonates, Nitrates and Borates: Carbon and oxygen group (13 - 27)

Sulphates, Chromates and Molybates: Sulphur and oxygen group (28 - 36)

Phosphates, Arsenates and Vandates: metal and phosphates (37 - 49)

Organic: minerals formed from living organisims: ie amber and pearls (50)

Silicates: Silicon and Oxygen group almost a third of all minerals (51 - 78)

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