Identify the Mineral on the basis of the following characteristics relating to it:

I. It is usually a greenish crystal.

II. It is often found in basaltic rocks.

III. Magnesium, iron and silica are its major elements.

Select the answer using the code given below: 

The correct answer is Olivine.

Key Points

• Olivine is typically a greenish crystal, often found in igneous rocks, especially basaltic formations.
• It is composed primarily of magnesium, iron, and silica, making it a silicate mineral.
• The chemical formula of olivine is (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄, indicating its composition as a magnesium-iron silicate.
• Olivine is significant in geology as it is a primary mineral in the Earth's upper mantle and contributes to the study of mantle composition.
• This mineral is also used industrially, such as in refractory applications and sandblasting, due to its high melting point and durability.

Additional Information

• Silicate Minerals: These are the most abundant group of minerals on Earth, consisting of silicon and oxygen along with other elements like magnesium, iron, and aluminum.
• Basaltic Rocks: Basalt is a type of igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of basaltic lava, often containing minerals like olivine, pyroxene, and plagioclase feldspar.
• Earth's Mantle Composition: The mantle is primarily composed of silicate minerals, including olivine, which plays a key role in the study of geophysical processes such as mantle convection and plate tectonics.
• Industrial Applications: Olivine is used in industries for sandblasting, as a foundry sand, and in the production of magnesium-rich materials due to its high thermal stability.
• Pyroxene vs. Olivine: While both are silicate minerals found in igneous rocks, pyroxene contains more calcium and aluminum, whereas olivine is richer in magnesium and iron.