Silicates Definition In the fields of geology and mineralogy, the term “silicates” refers to compounds whose crystal structure contains SiO4 tetrahedra. Silicates are either isolated or joined to form groups, rings, single or double chains, sheets, or three-dimensional frameworks.

Normal Fault Normal Fault: In the field of geology, a normal fault is a type of dip-slip fault where the hanging wall moves downwards from the footwall. The average dipping angle of a normal fault ranges from 45 to 90 degrees. Normal faults are the opposite of reverse faults. Detachment Fault Detachment Fault: A detachment…

Perched Groundwater Perched Groundwater – In geology, “perched groundwater” refers to unconfined groundwater which separates from an underlying body of groundwater by an unsaturated zone or vadose zone.

Zoning Mineralogy Definition Zoning is a variation of crystal composition that is a characteristic of feldspars. To illustrate, the center of a feldspar mineral is formed by a high-temperature phase, whereas the exterior is formed by a low-temperature phase.

Mineral Assemblages Mineral Assemblages: In the field of geology and the branch of mineralogy, the term “mineral assembles” means the minerals that compose a rock, including the different kinds and their relative abundance.