Which mineral group predominantly consists of feldspar and quartz?

Prepare for the DIVE Earth Science Quarterly Exam 1. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The mineral group that predominantly consists of feldspar and quartz is known as felsic. Felsic minerals are characterized by their high silica content, typically above 66%, which is reflective of their mineral composition primarily including quartz and feldspar. These minerals are light in color and are commonly found in many types of igneous rocks, such as granite and rhyolite.

Feldspar is the most prevalent group of minerals in the Earth's crust and works alongside quartz, which is a significant component of the felsic group. This relationship is crucial for understanding the formation and characteristics of various rock types within the igneous rock family.

In contrast, mafic minerals, which include magnesium and iron, are typically darker and contain less silica. Metamorphic refers to rock types that have been changed by heat and pressure but do not specifically denote a mineral composition. Sedimentary pertains to rocks formed from sediment deposition, which involves different processes and materials that are not limited to feldspar and quartz. Thus, felsic is the correct answer as it specifically denotes the group that predominantly contains these two key minerals.

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