how many minerals are there?

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how many minerals are there?

2007-11-12 08:37:06 · 0 answers · asked by Yolanda M 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology

0 answers

Minerals are naturally occurring with an exact chemical composition (arguably inorganic) and an orderly arrangement of atoms. Exactly what atoms can pair up with what has many possibilities. Of known minerals, there are around 4500 or so. Many other minerals may exist, but only under certain conditions that are not present on the earths crust. Others may exist but the bonds are so fragile that they decompose to other more familiar minerals. The simple answer: a lot.

2007-11-12 08:56:52 · answer #1 · answered by Pecos 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋

http://www.webmineral.com

Count 'em up!

2007-11-12 08:51:22 · answer #2 · answered by Lady Geologist 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋