Streak Plates

[SciTeach]

I'm in need of some streak plates to be used during a rocks and minerals lab. Any ideas where I can order them? Also, is using bathroom tiles the same thing? Are they made from the same material?

Thanks,

SciTeach

 

[JohnV]

streak plates

Yes, the back side of a ceramic tile is the same thing. The idea is to have a "chalkboard"-like surface that is hard enough for minerals to be rubbed on to make a mark or "streak". The color of the streak is often different from the color of the mineral in a chunk. This provides another clue to use in identifying the mineral.

If you know of a place where construction is being done you can often approach the foreman on the job and ask for pieces of tile that have been broken or cut and will be thrown away because they can't be used.

John

 

[sciteach]

thank you john

thanks !!!!!!

 

[BN]

Try a store. More info...

WOW. I've hit the trifecta. Three science posts I have some info on.

To add to John's info. You can go to Home Depot or Lowes and buy some ceramic tile. You can buy indivdual tiles. You don't have to buy a whole box. The small tiles maybe 30-40 cents each. Or I would explain that I'm a teacher and need a few tiles. Ask if they have an broken or chipped tiles that they could give you. Most stores will give broken tiles to you for free especially if you tell them its for school /science class.

BN, a science teacher too.

 

[sciteach]

question about tiles

I went to Lowes today to buy tiles and boy was it confusing. I found some ceramic tiles (glazed on front, unglazed on back) for .14 each.

Are these the right tiles? In the unglazed section, they just had the regualr sized tiles, not the individual ones I'd need for my students. Also they didn't have beige or white.

Help!!!! Am I on the right track?

Thanks!!!!!!!!

 

[JohnV]

You want to use the backs of the small ceramic tiles. The slightly rough texture provides the surface for the streak to be made.

John