Metallic luster is the shine or glow exhibited by metals and metallic minerals. It is a physical property that is easily recognizable by its characteristic brightness, reflectivity, and shine. Metallic luster is one of the primary ways that geologists and mineralogists identify minerals in rocks and ores.

Properties of Metallic Luster

The properties of metallic luster are as follows:

1. Reflectivity: Metals have a high degree of reflectivity, which means that they reflect light from their surfaces. This is why metals are used for mirrors and reflective surfaces.

2. Brightness: Metallic minerals have a bright, shiny appearance that makes them stand out from non-metallic minerals.

3. Color: Metallic minerals have a distinctive color that can vary from silver-white to black.

4. Opacity: Metal minerals are opaque, which means that they do not let light pass through them.

5. Smoothness: Metal minerals have a smooth surface that reflects light evenly.

6. Density: Metallic minerals are dense, which means that they have a high mass per unit volume.

Examples of Metallic Minerals

Some examples of metallic minerals include:

1. Gold
2. Silver
3. Copper
4. Iron
5. Aluminum
6. Lead
7. Zinc
8. Platinum
9. Nickel

Uses of Metallic Minerals

Metallic minerals have various uses, such as:

1. Making jewelry and coins
2. Building materials
3. Electrical and electronic equipment
4. Construction of vehicles, aircraft, and ships
5. Production of machinery and tools

Conclusion

In conclusion, metallic luster is the shine or glow exhibited by metals and metallic minerals. It is a physical property that is easily recognizable by its characteristic brightness, reflectivity, and shine. Metallic minerals have various uses in different industries, making them valuable resources.

Metallic luster means metals have shiny ness or shiny appearance. Non metals do not have lustrous appearance except iodine and diamond.