The silicates are broken into several groups based on the way the silica tetrahedral are ________.
A)bonded to anions
B)bonded to iron atoms
C)arranged and bonded
D)arranged and charged

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The silicates are differentiated based on how the silica tetrahedrons are arranged and bonded. This determines their physical and chemical properties, such as their crystal structure, hardness, and reactivity. Therefore, choice C correctly describes the key factor that distinguishes silicate groups. Option A is incorrect because anions can bond in various ways to the silica tetrahedra and not all groups are categorized based on the type of anion bonding. Option B is incorrect because iron is not always present in silicates, and when it is, it is not the primary basis for grouping them. Option D is incorrect because the arrangement of silica tetrahedra is not the same as their charge, and while different silicate groups do differ in their charge, this is not the only aspect considered when classifying them.

The Silicates Are Broken into Several Groups Based on the Way