2007-09-26 09:20:19 · 4 answers · asked by :] 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
The definition of a mineral is defined by the IMA (International Mineralogical Association) as:
"an element or chemical compound that is normally crystalline and that has been formed as a result of geological processes."
As petroleum is a liquid at normal temperatures, it is not crystalline, so it can't be a mineral. It is formed by geological processes, but even if it were cold enough for petroleum to turn to a solid it wouldn't be a single pure chemical compound - petroleum is a mixture of a variety of hydrocarbons.
Bitumen is an example of a solid mixed hydrocarbon that is found in geological settings, and in historical times (19th century and before) it was regarded as a mineral - the definitions weren't so advanced as the science of mineralogy then was young. But now, Bitumen is regarded as a mixture of solid hydrocarbons and not a true mineral. So even if petroleum were solidified, it'd still not be a mineral!
2007-09-28 02:29:11 · answer #1 · answered by Jolyon R 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
most geologists define a mineral as a naturally occuring homogenous solid with a crystalline structure.
Some also include inorganic but there is a mineral that has organics in it called Flagstaffite produced when trees fell into a lava flow.
Ice is a mineral, obsidian is not. Petroleum is not a mineral because it is not solid and does not have a crystalline structure.
2007-09-26 16:41:37 · answer #2 · answered by April C 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
petroleum is a by-product of the natural gas industry. it is a compound. compounds are made up of elements. there is not way it could be a mineral all by itself.
2007-09-26 16:25:17 · answer #3 · answered by nathan m 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋
nicely put nathan m. he is right. it is a byrproduct, compound made of many elements...
2007-09-26 16:29:33 · answer #4 · answered by Peter Griffin 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋