Mineral Identification Worksheet

Assuming you have opened the simulation and printed this worksheet and the Mineral Identification Job Aid, do the following:

  1. Conduct all tests on the minerals in the virtual lab. Minerals in the virtual lab are numbered 1-7. Keep track of which mineral you are working with as you record your observations.
  1. Record your observations of each test in Part 1 ofthis worksheet.

Help: Refer to thejob aids in the upper right corner of the test screens to help you interpret what you observe.

  1. Identify the minerals by comparing your observations with the Mineral Identification Reference Sheet. Write the name of each mineral in Part 2 ofthis worksheet.

Help: The minerals in the virtual lab are numbered to conceal their identities, but the minerals will include seven of those listed below. To help you identify them, refer to the Mineral Identification Job Aid.

GLG 101

  • Borax
  • Calcite
  • Corundum
  • Graphite
  • Gypsum
  • Orthoclase feldspar
  • Pyrite
  • Quartz
  • Talc
  • Topaz

GLG 101

  1. PostPart 1 and Part 2 in this worksheet as an attachment to your Individualforum. Delete the introductory instructions in this worksheet before you submit it to your instructor.

GLG 101

Part 1: Recording Observations

In the chart below, record your observations of each test for the seven minerals. After you have completed all tests, name the minerals in Part 2 of this worksheet. An example of how to fill out the chart is illustrated below.

Recorded Observations for Minerals 1-7
Tests / Example / Mineral 1 / Mineral 2 / Mineral 3 / Mineral 4 / Mineral 5 / Mineral 6 / Mineral 7
Color / White
Streak / White
Luster / Shiny
Specific Gravity / 3.18
Cleavage & Fracture / Cleavage
Hardness / 4
Acid / No Reaction

Part 2: Naming the Minerals

Name the minerals below. Then, insert a percentage of how certain you are in your identification. Finally, explain your percentage of certainty: What was confusing about this mineral? What other minerals do you think it could be?

Remember, the minerals in the virtual lab include seven of the following: borax, calcite, corundum, graphite, gypsum, orthoclase feldspar, pyrite, quartz, talc, and topaz.

Identification of Mineral / Percent Certain / Explanation of Certainty
Example: Fluorite / 80% certain / I am almost certain this mineral is fluorite, butI am not complete sure. Fluorite and gypsum are both white, shiny, have white streaks, cleave, and show no reaction to acid. However, the specific gravity of this mineral is 3.18, which is higher than gypsum, so I am pretty sure it is fluorite.
Mineral 1: <insert name of mineral>
Mineral 2:
Mineral 3:
Mineral 4:
Mineral 5:
Mineral 6:
Mineral 7:

GLG 101