Chapter 2 Minerals

Front

What class of minerals do gold, silver, and copper belong to?

Back

Native elements.

Front

Halite (NaCl) belongs to which mineral group?

Back

Halides.

Front

Gypsum (CaSO4) belongs to which mineral group?

Back

Sulfates and sulfides.

Front

When atoms combine to form compounds, what do they gain, lose, or share?

Back

Electrons.

Front

What is the mineral property described by the words metallic, glassy, pearly, and vitreous?

Back

Luster.

Front

What does a compound contain?

Back

Two or more elements chemically combined.

Front

What is the definition of a mineral?

Back

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

Front

What are the two main types of minerals?

Back

Silicate and non-silicate minerals.

Front

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes silicate minerals?

Back

The presence of silicon and oxygen in their structure.

Front

What is the definition of luster in minerals?

Back

The way light interacts with the surface of a mineral.