Matter and Minerals

Explore the fundamental concepts of matter and minerals in this comprehensive 39-minute lecture. Delve into atomic structure, chemical bonding, and optical properties of minerals. Learn about luster, color, and crystal habits, as well as mineral strength, hardness, and cleavage. Examine various mineral groups, including light and dark silicates, nonsilicates, and carbonates. Investigate the importance of nonrenewable resources and mineral resources. Access additional resources such as mineral databases and USGS information centers to further enhance your understanding of this essential geological topic.