ES- Matter and Minerals

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition and a crystalline structure.

Front

What is the difference between a rock and a mineral?

Back

Minerals have a definite chemical composition, while rocks do not have a definite chemical composition.

Front

What is the term for the powdery residue a mineral leaves when dragged across a porcelain tile?

Back

Streak.

Front

What does the term 'cleavage' refer to in mineralogy?

Back

The ability of a mineral to break into smooth, even surfaces.

Front

Which statement about minerals is FALSE?

Back

Humans can create minerals to suit specific needs.

Front

Where can ore minerals NOT form?

Back

In a bed of hot, flowing lava.

Front

What is the definition of a mineral's hardness?

Back

Hardness is a measure of a mineral's resistance to scratching.

Front

What is the Mohs scale?

Back

The Mohs scale is a scale that ranks minerals based on their hardness from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).

Front

What is the term for the way a mineral reflects light?

Back

Luster.

Front

What is the significance of a mineral's crystal structure?

Back

The crystal structure determines the mineral's physical properties and how it interacts with light.