Crystallography, optics and mineralogy
Dr David Lambert
4 points * 9 hours per week * Second semester * Clayton
This subject deals with the external geometry and symmetry of crystals; crystal systems and classes; stereographic projection in crystallography; bonding and packing of atoms and ions in crystals; the common crystal structure types; structure controls on the chemistry of minerals. The transmission of light by crystals; the polarising microscope; study of the optical properties of common minerals and mineral identification. The physical structure and chemical compositions of common silicate and non-silicate mineral groups; some physical and chemical properties of minerals, and their response to changes in physical conditions.
Assessment
Examinations (2 hours): 65% * Practical work/Fieldwork: 35%
Prescribed texts
Deer W A and others An introduction to the rock forming minerals Longman, 1991
Gribble C D and Hall A J Optical mineralogy: Principles and practice UCL, 1992