An atom is the smallest particle of matter that still retains the characteristics of an element. Each atom has a nucleus which contains protons and neutrons . Orbiting the nucleus of an atom are electrons. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus determines its atomic number and the name of the element. Atoms bond together to form a compound by either gaining, losing, or sharing electrons with another atom.
Some isotopes are unstable and disintegrate naturally through a process called radioactive decay .
The properties of minerals include crystal form , luster , color , streak , hardness , cleavage , fracture , and specific gravity . Each mineral has a unique set of properties which can be used for identification. The most common mineral group is the silicates . All silicate minerals have the silicon-oxygen tetrahedron as their fundamental building block. Each silicate mineral has a structure and a chemical composition that indicates the conditions under which it was formed.