Final answer:
Vermiculite is a mineral that is commonly found in many sheet silicates. It has a layered structure with a high degree of hydration, which allows for easy absorption and release of water.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vermiculite is a mineral that belongs to the group of sheet silicates. It is a hydrated magnesium aluminum iron silicate with the chemical formula (Mg, Fe, Al)3(Al, Si)4O10(OH)2 • 4H2O. Vermiculite is commonly found in many sheet silicates because it has a layered structure with a high degree of hydration, which allows water to be easily absorbed and released.