The silicate tetrahedron that forms the backbone of all the silicate minerals is composed of silicon and what other element?
A) magnesium
B) oxygen
C) iron
D) carbon

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The silicate tetrahedron is composed of one silicon atom and four oxygen atoms, giving it a chemical formula of SiO4. This backbone structure is the foundation for all silicate minerals. Magnesium, iron, and carbon may be present in various silicate minerals as additional elements, but they are not part of the silicate tetrahedron itself.

The Silicate Tetrahedron That Forms the Backbone of All the Silicate