KEYS Earth Science

Mineral Quest

Name_____________________________

1. Choose a mineral to research: ______________________________

2. To make sure that the mineral you select is not being done by anyone else in your class, enter
your names and the mineral that you have selected on the class website, Earth Matters, under
Questions for Mrs. Moore.
Research all of the following areas, making notes and writing down the source of your
information. I will post some helpful websites on Earth Matters. Note that Question 6 will be
the longest section of your presentation. At the end of your research, you will present your
information to the class in either a Flip Book or PowerPoint (PowerPoint and its variations of
Prezi, Glogster are all acceptable).
3. Find some distinguishing properties of your mineral. Identify the color, class or mineral group,
streak, hardness, cleavage /fracture, specific density and any other special properties that are
unique to your mineral. Take notes.
4. What are the chemical elements in your adopted mineral? This could be as simple as a single
element if your mineral is in the native element group, or a very complex chemical formula.

5. Where in the world is your mineral be found?

would be a good visual to include!

Is it also found in the United States? A map

6. How is your mineral mined and processed? Hint: try searching your mineral + mine + process.
Include information about what the working conditions are for those in the mines. What are the
specific health and safety risks associated with the mining? What is being done to address the
specific health and safety risks? Try to find out how and how much the mineworkers are paidper ton, per hour, per day.
7. What is the current value of your mineral: $/g or $/oz. or $/ton or $/kg?

8. What can your mineral be used for?

9. Remember your mineral may be made of more than one element, for example, galena is made
of lead and sulfur. The elements may determine the use of the mineral. I will post some web
sites on Earth Matters that might help you find the uses of your mineral.

10. Minerals often have special properties, one of which is their crystal shape. Find a photograph of
your mineral in its crystal form to place in your final presentation.
You need the following sections in your report:
Each section should be its own slide and have the relevant information and a picture or diagram that
supports or explains the content of the slide.

Title Slide (mineral name and a few pictures of it)

Mineral Properties

Where the mineral is found and its current value.

How the mineral is mined and/or processed.

The principle uses of your mineral

Pictures of your adopted mineral in its crystal form.