NetQuantum :: Science :: Earth_Sciences :: Geology :: Rocks_and_Minerals :: Minerals ::

Feb. 18: Martian soil gets a closer look

Measurements should reveal whether the mineral is limited to the surface or present throughout the soil. Scientists could also turn up evidence of other minerals that might point to past water activity.

The scientific story behind the meteor show

And after it’s been exposed to the weather, it’ll look like normal rocks, too, since meteorites are made of the same kinds of minerals, like olivine, pyroxene and feldspar, and metals like iron and nickel, that most terrestrial rocks are made of ...

Jan. 12: Muddy mystery intrigues scientists

If there are clay minerals ... they have unsettled charges, so there can be electrostatic attractions," he said. Malin, meanwhile, said past missions have shown that dry Martian soil could take on some of the characteristics of a fluid. "It'd be very ...

Cheers! Bubbly basics for the holidays

Hints of oak and minerals highlight this dry-style cava. With its firm structure and cleansing finish, it would work either as an aperitif or with light foods. Drink now. Italy (Prosecco) Nino Franco Brut Prosecco di Valdobbiadene NV, $14, 86 points ...

Feb. 13: Mars rovers get bandwidth boost

They hope Opportunity will find minerals that could reveal whether the planet ever was wet enough to support life, a key goal of the double mission. NASA planned for Spirit to spend much of the weekend inspecting two rocks and the surrounding soil ...