Earth Materials

Front

What is the definition of 'streak' in mineralogy?

Back

The streak of a mineral is the color of its powder when it is scraped across a porcelain plate.

Front

What are the two main groups of minerals?

Back

Silicate Minerals and Non-Silicate Minerals.

Front

What is the hardness range of pyrite?

Back

Pyrite has a hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale.

Front

Describe the appearance of fluorite.

Back

Fluorite is vitreous, translucent to transparent, can glow under UV light, and may be multi-colored.

Front

Which mineral is primarily found in the Earth's mantle?

Back

Olivine is largely found within the Earth's mantle.

Front

What is the definition of 'cleavage' in minerals?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of luster in mineral identification?

Back

Luster describes how light interacts with the surface of a mineral, indicating its appearance (e.g., metallic, glassy, dull).

Front

What are silicate minerals?

Back

Silicate minerals are minerals that contain silicon and oxygen, and they are the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's crust.

Front

What is the difference between silicate and non-silicate minerals?

Back

Silicate minerals contain silicon and oxygen, while non-silicate minerals do not contain silicon.

Front

What is a conchoidal fracture?

Back

A conchoidal fracture is a type of fracture that produces smooth, curved surfaces, resembling the shape of a shell.