What determines a mineral's specific gravity?

The specific gravity of a mineral is defined as the ratio of the mineral's weight to the weight of an equal volume of water. This measurement provides a clear understanding of how dense a mineral is compared to water. Specifically, it reflects how much mass is contained in a given volume, allowing geologists and mining engineers to infer various physical properties of the mineral.

In contrast, while the chemical composition can influence the density of a mineral, it is not the sole determinant of specific gravity. Similarly, the bonding strength of atoms affects the structural integrity and potentially the density, but again does not directly equate to specific gravity. The temperature of formation can also impact mineral characteristics, but specific gravity is primarily a function of weight and volume rather than the conditions under which the mineral formed.

Thus, the specific gravity is best understood through comparing the mineral’s weight to an equal volume of water, making this measurement fundamental for assessing minerals in mining and geology.