Cleavage and Fracture
-The way a mineral breaks is another clue of it`s identity.
-If a mineral breaks along the plains and it is smooth it is known to have cleavage.
-If a mineral breaks along the plains and it is rough or jagged it is known to have a fracture.
-Mica is an example of cleavage, seperating mica is just like opening a book.
-Quartz is an example of fracture, you can not peel it.
-To examine cleavage and fracture you need to see a freshly broken mineral to know if it has cleavage or fracture.
-If a mineral breaks along the plains and it is smooth it is known to have cleavage.
-If a mineral breaks along the plains and it is rough or jagged it is known to have a fracture.
-Mica is an example of cleavage, seperating mica is just like opening a book.
-Quartz is an example of fracture, you can not peel it.
-To examine cleavage and fracture you need to see a freshly broken mineral to know if it has cleavage or fracture.