silicon tetrahedron

A silicon tetrahedron is a basic building block in many minerals, especially quartz and other silicate minerals. It consists of one silicon atom at the center bonded to four oxygen atoms at its corners, forming a pyramid-shaped structure. These tetrahedra can connect in various ways—sharing oxygen atoms—to create complex minerals and rocks. This structure is essential for understanding the composition and properties of silicate minerals that make up a large part of Earth's crust.