Mineral Identification

Front

What is the hardness test in mineral identification?

Back

The hardness test measures a mineral's resistance to scratching, often using the Mohs scale.

Front

What are the two types of luster in minerals?

Back

Metallic and nonmetallic.

Front

What does a streak test reveal about a mineral?

Back

A streak test shows the powdered form of the mineral.

Front

If a mineral scratches glass, what can be inferred about its hardness?

Back

The mineral is harder than glass.

Front

What is effervescence in mineral testing?

Back

Effervescence occurs when acid is dropped on a mineral, causing it to bubble and fizz.

Front

What is the Mohs scale?

Back

The Mohs scale is a scale from 1 to 10 used to rank the hardness of minerals.

Front

What is cleavage in mineral identification?

Back

Cleavage is the tendency of a mineral to break along flat, even surfaces.

Front

What is the difference between streak and color in minerals?

Back

Streak is the color of a mineral in powdered form, while color is the appearance of the mineral in its solid form.

Front

What is the significance of a mineral's luster?

Back

Luster describes how light reflects off a mineral's surface, indicating its quality and type.

Front

What does it mean if a mineral has a vitreous luster?

Back

A vitreous luster means the mineral has a glassy appearance.