Silica
Silica is a compound composed of silicon and oxygen (SiO2). It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and can be found in various forms, including quartz, cristobalite, tridymite, and amorphous silica.
Properties of Silica
- Hardness: Silica is a hard mineral, ranking 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.
- Melting Point: The melting point of silica is around 1,713 degrees Celsius.
- Chemical Reactivity: Silica is relatively inert and resistant to many chemicals.
Uses of Silica
Silica has numerous industrial applications, including:
- Manufacture of glass
- Production of silicon for use in electronics
- Additive in construction materials such as concrete and mortar
- Component in ceramics and refractories
- Abrasive in toothpaste and other cleaning products
Environmental and Health Concerns
Exposure to crystalline silica dust can pose health risks, such as silicosis, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. Proper safety measures should be taken when working with materials containing silica to minimize inhalation of fine particles.
Study Guide Questions
- What is the chemical composition of silica?
- Identify at least three different forms of silica.
- Discuss the industrial applications of silica.
- What are the potential health hazards associated with silica exposure?
◂Earth Science Worksheets and Study Guides High School. The Rock Cycle
Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle 
Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Vocabulary/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Vocabulary/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Vocabulary/Answer key
The Rock Cycle
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.