JLKR+4.2

toc Back to Homepage

Vocabulary
= =
 * solution-** when a mixture of one substance dissolves in another substance
 * vein-** is a narrow channel or slab of a mineral that is different than the surrounding rock

Processes that Form Minerals

 * minerals can form in two ways
 * through crystallization of melted materials
 * through crystallization of materials dissolved in water

Minerals from Magma

 * when magma remains deep below the surface, it cools slowly
 * magma closer to the surface cools faster

Minerals from Hot Water Solutions

 * when hot water solutions cool,it begins to crystallize, forming minerals

Minerals formed by Evaporation

 * minerals can also form when solutions evaporate

Where Minerals are Found

 * common minerals are distributed evenly along Earth's crust
 * rare minerals are not distributed evenly along Earth's crust
 * rare minerals are found in or near areas of volcanic activity or mountain building