Mineral Identification by Chemical Testing

Abstract

We present the details of a qualitative chemistry exercise that can be used for mineral identification and requires relatively simplistic laboratory facilities. The exercise is used as part of a forensic earth science module for second year BSc Forensic Science students who previously have had a basic chemical education but little experience of classical inorganic analysis. We suggest that it could be adapted for use with students studying beginning geoscience courses who could usefully increase their knowledge of chemistry. Flow charts that guide the students through the investigation are provided. For more experienced students, references are provided that illustrate more advanced “wet” analytical techniques.