What is the difference between white feldspar and white talc? Based on looks please, I need to know how to identify each of them by Monday. Thank you!
Check out this site.
http://pr.utk.edu/ut2kids/scientists/mora.html
Thank you, we are only allwed to look at the rock. I'm looking for something that describes each rock in detail. Once again thanks
Athough the scratch test is more reliable for distinguishing between these two rocks, these images may help you identify them by sight.
http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&ie=ISO-8859-1&q=white+feldspar&gbv=2
http://images.google.com/images?gbv=2&hl=en&ie=ISO-8859-1&q=white+talc&btnG=Search+Images
To identify the difference between white feldspar and white talc based on looks, there are a few visual characteristics you can observe. Here's how you can differentiate between them:
1. Color: Both white feldspar and white talc have a white color, but there might be subtle differences. Feldspar typically has a slightly translucent appearance, with a milky or glassy white color. On the other hand, talc is usually opaque and has a pure, chalky white color.
2. Texture: Examine the texture of the mineral. Feldspar often has a rougher texture compared to talc. It may appear granular or have visible crystals. Talc, on the other hand, has a soft, powdery texture and may feel smooth to the touch.
3. Hardness: While it may not be apparent just by looking, you can test the hardness of the minerals using a simple scratch test. Feldspar has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, meaning it is harder than talc. Talc, on the other hand, is one of the softest minerals, with a hardness of only 1 on the Mohs scale. You can scratch talc with your fingernail, but you cannot scratch feldspar as easily.
4. Cleavage and Fracture: Cleavage refers to the way a mineral breaks along planes of weakness. Feldspar tends to have a clean, flat cleavage and breaks into well-defined, blocky or tabular pieces. Talc exhibits a perfect basal cleavage, meaning it breaks into thin, flat sheets. Talc sheets can easily be peeled or cut, giving it a characteristic "soapy" feel.
By considering these visual characteristics—color, texture, hardness, and cleavage—you should be able to differentiate between white feldspar and white talc. It is always a good idea to look at multiple samples to identify any variations or contrasting features.