Question
Which of the common mineral is not a silicate ?
The correct answer is
Calcite
Mineral Identification: Silicate vs. Non-Silicate
Understanding mineral classifications is key in geology. Minerals are often grouped based on their chemical composition.
Silicate Minerals Explained
Silicate minerals are the most abundant group in Earth's crust. They are characterized by the presence of silicon (Si) and oxygen (O) atoms bonded together, typically forming the silica tetrahedron ($ \text{SiO}_4^{4-} $).
Analysis of Options
- Quartz: This mineral has the chemical formula $ \text{SiO}_2 $. It is a fundamental silicate mineral.
- Calcite: This mineral has the chemical formula $ \text{CaCO}_3 $. It belongs to the carbonate group, not the silicate group.
- Pyroxene: This is a group of important rock-forming silicate minerals.
- Feldspar: This is the most abundant group of minerals in Earth's crust, and all feldspars are tectosilicates (a subclass of silicates).
Conclusion
Based on the chemical composition, Quartz, Pyroxene, and Feldspar are all silicate minerals. Calcite, a carbonate mineral, is the only option that is not a silicate.
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