Why do thin sections help geologists identify minerals better than with a hand specimen alone?
A)Thin sections allow the geologist to identify the chemicals within the minerals.
B)Each mineral transmits polarized light differently and displays variations in colors.
C)Looking at a thin section allows the geologist to see the atomic structure of the minerals.
D)Cutting a thin section removes the weathered surface and shows the minerals' true colors.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Thin sections allow geologists to use polarized light to observe the optical properties of minerals, such as birefringence and pleochroism, which can aid in their identification. This is not possible with hand specimens, as the minerals appear opaque and their properties cannot be easily observed.

Why Do Thin Sections Help Geologists Identify Minerals Better Than