Mineral Review

Front

What is luster in minerals?

Back

Luster refers to the way light reflects off the surface of a mineral. It can be metallic or non-metallic (e.g., glassy, dull, pearly).

Front

What are the two main types of luster?

Back

Metallic and non-metallic.

Front

Why is color not the best identification tool for minerals?

Back

Color can vary due to impurities and is not consistent across all samples of a mineral.

Front

What are the five characteristics that define a mineral?

Back

1. Naturally occurring 2. Solid 3. Inorganic 4. Fixed chemical composition 5. Ordered atomic structure.

Front

What does it mean for a mineral to have a fixed chemical composition?

Back

It means that a mineral has a specific chemical formula that does not change.

Front

What is the difference between a mineral and an organic substance?

Back

Minerals are inorganic, meaning they are not made from living organisms, while organic substances are derived from living matter.

Front

What is a streak test in mineral identification?

Back

A streak test involves rubbing a mineral on a porcelain plate to observe the color of its powder, which can help identify the mineral.

Front

Can the streak color of a mineral always match its external color?

Back

No, the streak color may differ from the mineral's external color.

Front

What is the significance of a mineral being naturally occurring?

Back

It means that the mineral forms through natural geological processes, not artificially created.

Front

What does 'ordered atomic structure' mean in the context of minerals?

Back

It refers to the specific arrangement of atoms in a mineral, which contributes to its properties and classification.