Geology Blog Post #2: Minerals—Properties and Uses

Given that we are currently studying minerals (Chapter 3), I thought it would be interesting to look into some of the practical uses of various minerals. The process of identifying minerals via color, luster, and hardness, was thrilling earlier this week; however, knowing real-world applications of mineral material would give me a sense of context and perspective. Therefore, this week, I decided to blog about common mineral uses and the properties that make them suited for a particular purpose.

I would like to begin with my favorite mineral that the class identified in lab: Galena. The chemical formula of Galena is PbS (lead sulfide). The United States is the leading producer, consumer, and re-cycler of lead. Galena is used in batteries, gasoline additives, construction, ammunition, and even cathode ray tubes for monitors.

Graphite was my second favorite mineral that we identified as a class. Like Galena, Graphite has a a metallic luster. While I knew that it was used in pencils, I learned that Graphite is also used as a lubricant for locks and machinery. Given its slippery feel, it is very suited for this purpose.

Moreover, using the mohs hardness scale during lab, I learned that talc is listed as the softest mineral. Talc is primarily utilized in the production of paper. However, it is also used in a wide array of other household goods including baby powder, deodorant, and makeup.

Another mineral that is widely used is Calcite, which has a chemical formula of CaCO3. Calcite is “the principal constituent of limestone and marble” (Geology.com). I found it eye catching that Calcite is used as a soil additive. Due to its alkaline properties, Calcite has the capability to neutralize acidic soils. For instance, Calcite is applied in places that are effected by acid mine drainage; crushed limestone is dispensed into the streams to neutralize the waters. This mineral can also be considered a carbon repository; “[t]he process of limestone formation removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it away for long periods of time” (Geology.com). Therefore, Calcite serves a distinct role in ecological nutrient cycling.

Halite, or salt, serves a wide variety of purposes: from seasoning and food preservation, to lowering the freezing point of water in order to keep ice off roads.

Lastly, I am going to discuss Quartz, which has a chemical formula of SiO2 (Silica dioxide). Quartz has the ability to generate electricity when under mechanical stress; this property is known as piezoelectricity. As a result, quartz is used for pressure gauges, oscillators, resonators, and wave stabilizers. Additionally, given its high hardness, Quartz is commonly used in glass production.

Throughout my research, I stumbled upon the USGS ‘minerals yearbook’; this ‘yearbook’ is an impressive record of minerals, their properties, the markets in which they are primarily used, and–sometimes– even their history in regards to industrial usage rates etc. It is really interesting to look through if you are interested in the creative applications of minerals; I highly recommend it!

Needless to say, I have definitely gained a new appreciation for minerals after reading all about their various uses.

Thank you for reading!

Works Cited/ Consulted:

“Uses for Minerals.” Northwest Mining Association. Web. 02 Feb. 2013. .

“Talc and Pyrophyllite Statistics and Information.” USGS Minerals Infromation: Talc and Pyrophyllite. Web. 03 Feb. 2013. .

Calcite. Geology.com: News and Information about Geology. Web. 03 Feb. 2013. .

“Minerals and Their Uses.” ScienceViews.com. Web. 03 Feb. 2013.