Question 2: The Concept of Minerals and the Main Differences Between Primary and Secondary Minerals

2.1 Name FIVE examples of primary minerals. (5)

2.2 Name THREE examples of secondary minerals. (3)

2.3 Tabulate TWO differences between primary and secondary minerals. (5)

2.4 Read the extract below:

"It is not easy to identify a mineral using only one or two characteristics. Some minerals may have some of the same characteristics even though they are completely different. So, you need to look at a combination of several characteristics to identify a mineral accurately."

2.4.1 Name any three characteristics used in mineral identification. (3)

2.4.2 Give ONE reason why you cannot use only one characteristic to correctly identify a mineral. (2)

2.5 Explain why secondary minerals are less coarse than primary minerals. (2)

Explanation of primary and secondary minerals, differences between them, characteristics used in mineral identification, and why secondary minerals are less coarse.

Explanation:

Primary and Secondary Minerals:

Primary Minerals:

Quartz
Feldspar
Mica
Pyroxene
Olivine

Secondary Minerals:

Clay minerals
Zeolites
Limonite

Differences Between Primary and Secondary Minerals:

Primary Minerals vs. Secondary Minerals

DifferencesPrimary MineralsSecondary MineralsFormationForm during cooling of molten materialForm from decomposition products of primary mineralsTextureCoarserLess coarse

Characteristics in Mineral Identification:

Characteristics: Color, hardness, crystal habit

Reason: Different minerals can share the same characteristics, making a combination of traits necessary for accurate identification.

Why Secondary Minerals are Less Coarse:

Secondary minerals are less coarse because they form from decomposition processes that often involve finer-grained materials compared to the original cooling and solidification processes that form primary minerals.

Learn more about Minerals and Mineral Identification here:

https://brainly.com/question/32823688