Properties of minerals

Front

What is the hardest mineral?

Back

Diamond is the hardest mineral.

Front

What type of luster do gold, silver, and copper have?

Back

They have metallic luster.

Front

What scale is used to rank minerals from softest to hardest?

Back

The Mohs hardness scale.

Front

Which minerals can scratch apatite?

Back

Diamond, topaz, and quartz can scratch apatite.

Front

Which minerals are harder than quartz?

Back

Topaz, Corundum, and Diamond are harder than quartz.

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

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

Front

What is luster in minerals?

Back

Luster is the way a mineral reflects light, categorized as metallic or nonmetallic.

Front

What is the difference between metallic and nonmetallic luster?

Back

Metallic luster looks shiny like metal, while nonmetallic luster can appear dull, glassy, or pearly.

Front

What is the streak test?

Back

The streak test involves rubbing a mineral on a porcelain plate to observe the color of its powder.

Front

What is cleavage in minerals?

Back

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