Bio Cells

Associate Level Material

Mineral Identification Worksheet

Open the simulation and print this worksheet and the Mineral Identification Job Aid. Then 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.

2. Record your observations of each test in Part 1 of this worksheet.

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

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

Borax
Calcite
Corundum
Graphite
Gypsum
Orthoclase feldspar
Pyrite
Quartz
Talc
Topaz

4. Post Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 in this worksheet as an attachment to your Assignment Section. Delete the introductory instructions in this worksheet before you submit it to your instructor.

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
Gold
Green
White
Pink
White
White
Black
Streak
White
Black
White
White
White
White
White
Brown
Luster
Shiny
Shiny Specs
Shiny Specs
Shiny
Dull
Shiny
Shinny
Shiny Specs
Specific Gravity
3.18
5.1
2.8
2.7
2.6
2.6
2.4
2.2
Cleavage & Fracture
Cleavage
Fracture
Fracture
Cleavage
Fracture
Fracture
Cleavage
Fracture