Repeating patterns in mineral energetics

Several recurring themes emerge from years of study of the thermodynamics of mineralogical and ceramic systems. These common features are as follows: 1) acid-base interactions determine the energetics of formation of crystals, glasses, and melts; 2) entropy terms arising from configurational, vibrational, and electronic factors are important at high temperature and pressure; 3) in many cases, short-range interactions and local order dominate energetics; and 4) structural states at high temperature and pressure are often not quenchable to ambient conditions, making in-situ study essential for a reliable picture of mineral properties under conditions within the crust and mantle. Examples illustrating each of these themes are presented. -from Author