Chapter 25, Problem 6RQ

Most mineral samples do not display their crystal forms. Why not?

To determine

The reason for most mineral samples does not display their crystal forms.

Answer to Problem 6RQ

Most mineral samples do not display their crystal form because of space restrictions.

Explanation of Solution

The systematic arrangement of the atoms of a mineral is defined by a crystal form, which is a physical property of mineral. The crystal form of a mineral helps in identifying the mineral. But many minerals do not display their crystal form. This is because when minerals grow, they do not form clear crystals always.

The reason for not forming clear crystals is that a mineral may not have enough space when it grows. While growing a mineral has space, then it will form normal crystals which will display the crystal form.

Conclusion:

Therefore, most mineral samples do not display their crystal form because of space restrictions.