How many cleavage directions are typically found in feldspar, spodumene, and diopside?

Feldspar, spodumene, and diopside are all minerals characterized by their distinct cleavage patterns. In the case of these minerals, they typically exhibit two cleavage directions.

Feldspar, which is a group of tectosilicate minerals, commonly displays two directions of cleavage that intersect at approximately 90 degrees. This feature is an important diagnostic characteristic of feldspar and helps in identifying this mineral in hand specimens.

Spodumene, another important mineral, also exhibits two cleavage directions. The cleavage in spodumene is typically not as pronounced as in feldspar, but it still exists and can help distinguish it from other similar minerals.

Diopside, a member of the pyroxene group, features two distinct cleavage directions as well. These cleavages are generally at right angles to each other, which is a key identification criterion.

The presence of two cleavage directions in all three of these minerals is a defining feature that assists in their identification and classification, making the option of two the accurate choice.