The Determination of Minerals Under the Microscope

"The Determination of Minerals Under the Microscope" is a rigorous technical manual dedicated to the specialized methods used in mineralogical and petrological analysis. Authored by John W. Evans, this work provides a foundational exploration of how the petrological microscope can be used to identify mineral species through their unique optical properties within rock sections.

The text focuses on the practical application of optical physics to geology, offering clear instructions on examining birefringence, refractive indices, extinction angles, and pleochroism. By systematically detailing the behavior of polarized light as it passes through various crystalline structures, Evans enables the reader to classify minerals with precision. The work covers the essential principles required for the study of thin sections, making it a vital resource for understanding the composition and formation of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

Valued for its clarity and scientific accuracy, this classic guide serves as an important reference for students of geological sciences and researchers interested in the historical development of petrographic techniques. It remains a significant contribution to the field of mineral identification, emphasizing the intersection of light and matter in the natural world.

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