How do scientists classify minerals?

Question

Benjamin Awad · Accepted Answer

Into the Dana classification system that consists of about 9 families of minerals that have similar composition and structure.

Metals, semi-metals, and non-metals are examples of native elements (1) Sulfur and metal ores: Sulphosalts and Sulfides (2–3) Metal and oxygen, or corundum, are examples of oxides and hydroxides (4–8) Halides: Metal and elements containing halogen, such as flourite (9–12) Carbon and oxygen group: carbonates, nitrates, and borates (13 - 27) Sulfates: Sulfur and oxygen group; chromatates, molybates (28–36) Metal and phosphates: phosphates, arsenates, and vandates (37–49) Organic: minerals derived from living things, such as pearls and amber (50). Silicates: Almost one-third of all minerals are composed of silicon and oxygen (51–78). The URL is https://tutor.hix.ai

Nova Anderson · Answer

undefined Scientists classify minerals based on their chemical composition and crystalline structure. Minerals are categorized into groups based on their chemical elements and the way these elements are arranged within their crystal lattice. The main classifications include silicates, oxides, sulfides, sulfates, carbonates, halides, and native elements. Within each group, minerals are further classified based on their specific chemical compositions and crystal structures, allowing scientists to organize and study them systematically.