Rocks and Minerals Review

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 hardness scale used for minerals?

Back

The Mohs scale of hardness ranks minerals from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond) based on their ability to scratch one another.

Front

What mineral can scratch quartz?

Back

Moissanite can scratch quartz because it has a hardness greater than 7.0.

Front

What is granite?

Back

Granite is an igneous rock that is usually grey with white specks and is made up of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica.

Front

What is the difference between a rock and a mineral?

Back

A rock is made up of one or more minerals, while a mineral is a single substance with a specific chemical composition.

Front

What is the color of fluorite?

Back

Fluorite can come in many colors, including purple, green, and yellow.

Front

What property of rocks and minerals can be observed by looking at them?

Back

Properties such as shape, color, and texture can be observed, but weight cannot be determined just by looking.

Front

What is talc?

Back

Talc is a soft mineral that is rated 1 on the Mohs hardness scale and is used in products like talcum powder.

Front

What does it mean if a mineral has a definite shape?

Back

It means the mineral has a specific geometric form that is consistent and recognizable.

Front

What is an example of an igneous rock?

Back

Granite is an example of an igneous rock formed from cooled magma.