AllMineralsRock
Silver
Silver is a very popular mineral composed of silver. [1]
Silver: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Silver:- Transparency: Silver is opaque.
- Luster: In terms of luster, silver is metallic.
- Streak: Silver streaks gray, shiny or silver-white.
- Specific Gravity: Silver's specific gravity ranges from 9.6 to 12.
Silver: Background and Summary
Silver is a precious mineral that has been used for thousands of years due to its beauty and rarity. It is a soft, white, lustrous metal that is easily recognizable by its shiny appearance. One way to identify silver is by its density, as it is one of the heaviest metals. It is also a good conductor of electricity and heat, making it a valuable material in various industries.Silver has been used for many purposes throughout history, including currency, jewelry, and tableware. Its unique properties make it an ideal material for these items as it is durable, malleable, and does not corrode easily. Silver is also used in the production of electronics, mirrors, and solar panels due to its excellent conductivity.
In medicine, silver has been used as an antibacterial agent for centuries. It has been found to be effective against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it a valuable tool in wound care and infection prevention. In addition, silver is used in dental fillings and in the treatment of burns and other skin conditions.
Silver: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Silver (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | opaque |
| Chemical Formula | Ag |
| Chemical Composition | silver |
| Specific Gravity | 9.6, 12 |
| Streak | gray, shiny, silver-white |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: yellow sometimes: black, white |
Silver: FAQ
Q: Is silver a rare mineral?A: Yes, silver is considered a rare mineral, although it is found in many parts of the world.
Q: Can silver be harmful to humans?
A: While silver is generally safe, excessive exposure to silver can lead to a condition called argyria, which causes the skin to turn blue-gray.
Q: How is silver mined?
A: Silver is typically mined from underground deposits using a variety of techniques, including open-pit mining and underground mining.
Sources
- "Silver." Geology.com. https://geology.com/minerals/silver.shtml- "Uses of Silver in Electronics, Coins, Jewelry, Medicine." Geology.com. https://geology.com/minerals/silver-uses.shtml
- "Silver in Medicine." Royal Society of Chemistry. https://www.rsc.org/silver-in-medicine/
- Silver: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver
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