flaky mineral crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "flaky mineral crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MICA: A common rock-forming mineral known for its distinct perfect basal cleavage, allowing it to split into very thin, flexible sheets.
TALC: A very soft, hydrated magnesium silicate mineral, often found in a flaky or layered form, used in powders and ceramics.
More About "flaky mineral crossword"
Minerals that are described as "flaky" typically possess a characteristic known as cleavage, specifically basal cleavage. This means their atomic structure is arranged in such a way that they easily break along flat, parallel planes, forming thin, sheet-like layers. This property is highly distinct and helps in identifying certain minerals.
MICA is perhaps the most famous example of a flaky mineral, and consequently, a very common answer in crossword puzzles. It's a group of silicate minerals renowned for their perfect basal cleavage, which allows them to be split into exceptionally thin, transparent, and flexible sheets. Due to its electrical insulating properties, mica has been widely used in electronics, as well as in cosmetics and paints for its shimmering effect.
While MICA is the primary answer, TALC is another excellent fit for "flaky mineral." Known for being the softest mineral on the Mohs scale, talc also forms in a sheet-like structure, giving it a greasy or soapy feel and allowing it to break into flakes. Other minerals, such as certain types of clay (like kaolinite) and chlorite, also exhibit a flaky or platy habit, though they might appear less frequently in crossword clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Specificity: "Flaky mineral" is quite precise, referring to a physical characteristic. Focus on minerals known for their layered or sheet-like structure rather than just any general mineral.
- Count the Letters: If you have some letters already filled in, or a clear blank space, use the letter count as a strong hint. A 4-letter answer for "flaky mineral" almost certainly points to MICA or TALC.
- Think Common Crossword Tropes: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords due to their unique properties, common knowledge, or convenient letter counts. MICA is a classic example of a mineral that often turns up.
- Consider Synonyms and Properties: Sometimes clues use less direct language. Think about what "flaky" implies – layered, separable, sheet-like. This might help if a less obvious mineral is the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a mineral "flaky"?
A mineral is considered "flaky" when it exhibits perfect basal cleavage, meaning it breaks along flat, parallel planes, creating thin, sheet-like layers. This property is due to its atomic structure where bonds between certain layers are weaker than within the layers themselves.
Why is MICA such a common answer for "flaky mineral" in crosswords?
MICA is a very common answer because it perfectly embodies the term "flaky mineral" with its characteristic sheet-like structure. Its relatively short and common name (MICA is four letters) also makes it a frequent, convenient fit for many puzzle grids.
Are there other minerals besides MICA that fit the "flaky" description?
Yes, besides MICA, TALC is another common flaky mineral widely known for its softness and layered structure. Other examples include various clay minerals (like kaolinite and montmorillonite), chlorite, and vermiculite, all of which exhibit a distinct layered or platy habit.