Measuring the specific gravity of quartz
In this activity, students measure the specific gravity of a sample of the mineral quartz – another physical property of minerals that can be used in mineral identification.
By the end of this activity, students should be able to:
explain the meaning of the term specific gravity
calculate the specific gravity of a mineral sample from selected data
recognise how specific gravity can vary from one mineral sample to another
relate physical properties such as specific gravity as an aid in the identification of minerals.
The specific gravity of quartz
Use a small sample of quartz, a bowl of water and a spring balance to determine the quartz's mass.
Download the Word file (see link below) for:
introduction/background notes
instructions on what you need and what to do
discussion questions
ideas for extending your students
student worksheet.
Related content
Before doing this activity, ensure your students understand what is clay and what are minerals.
Related activity idea
Minerals present in granite – identify the main minerals present in granite and investigate some of their properties.
