Minerals - NGSS

Front

What is the streak of a mineral?

Back

The streak of a mineral is the color of its powder when it is crushed. It is a useful property for identifying minerals.

Front

Which physical property of a mineral cannot be determined if it is embedded in plastic?

Back

Hardness cannot be determined if a mineral is embedded in plastic.

Front

What causes the physical properties of a mineral?

Back

The physical properties of a mineral are largely caused by its internal arrangement of atoms.

Front

How is quartz best identified?

Back

Quartz is best identified by its hardness.

Front

What is Moh's scale used for?

Back

Moh's scale is used for identifying a mineral sample based on its hardness.

Front

Define mineral. What are its key characteristics?

Back

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

Front

What is luster in minerals?

Back

Luster refers to the way light reflects off the surface of a mineral, indicating its appearance.

Front

What is the difference between cleavage and fracture in minerals?

Back

Cleavage is the tendency of a mineral to break along flat surfaces, while fracture is the way a mineral breaks irregularly.

Front

What is the significance of crystal shape in mineral identification?

Back

Crystal shape can help identify a mineral as it reflects the internal arrangement of atoms.

Front

What is the definition of hardness in minerals?

Back

Hardness is a measure of a mineral's resistance to scratching, often determined using Moh's scale.