Types of Silicates Part 1: Orthosilicates, Disilicates, and Cyclosilicates

The video tutorial covers the eighth class of minerals, silicates, which are crucial in Earth's crust. It explains the silica tetrahedron structure and its ability to form complex frameworks. The tutorial delves into different subclasses of silicates, including ortho silicates like olivine and garnet, soros silicates such as the epidote group, and cyclo silicates like beryl and tourmaline. Each subclass is characterized by its unique structural arrangement and chemical composition, highlighting the diversity and complexity of silicate minerals.

What is the basic building block of all silicate minerals?

• Silica tetrahedron

• Carbon tetrahedron

• Iron hexagon

• Oxygen octahedron

Which subclass of silicates does not involve polymerization of silica tetrahedra?

• Framework silicates

• Ortho silicates

• Sheet silicates

• Ring silicates

In the olivine group, which element is the magnesium end member?

• Fayalite

• Garnet

• Forsterite

• Kyanite

What is the high-pressure polymorph of aluminosilicates?

• Andalusite

• Sillimanite

• Kyanite

• Epidote

Which mineral group is known for incorporating rare earth elements?

• Tourmaline

• Allanite

• Garnet

• Olivine

What is the structural characteristic of ring silicates?

• Ring of tetrahedra

• Sheet of tetrahedra

• Single tetrahedron

• Double chain

Which gemstone is a variety of beryl containing chromium?

• Emerald

• Aquamarine

• Ruby

• Sapphire