Silicate minerals are the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's crust, primarily composed of silicon and oxygen. They form the basis of many rocks and are classified into various groups based on their structure, such as tetrahedra and octahedra. Common examples include quartz and feldspar, which play crucial roles in geology and construction.
These minerals are essential for understanding geological processes and the formation of the Earth's crust. Their unique properties, such as hardness and cleavage, make them valuable in various industries, including ceramics and electronics. Silicate minerals are not only important for Earth sciences but also for everyday materials we use.