Rocks vs Minerals

Front

What is a rock?

Back

A rock is a solid material made up of one or more minerals.

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

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

Front

What are the three main types of rocks?

Back

The three main types of rocks are igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary.

Front

Do minerals contain fossils?

Back

No, minerals do not contain fossils.

Front

What is the chemical composition of a mineral?

Back

Minerals have a definite chemical composition, meaning they are made up of specific elements in fixed ratios.

Front

Can rocks be made of just one mineral?

Back

Yes, some rocks are made of just one mineral, such as granite which is primarily composed of quartz.

Front

What is an igneous rock?

Back

Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava).

Front

What is a sedimentary rock?

Back

Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles.

Front

What is a metamorphic rock?

Back

Metamorphic rocks are formed from existing rocks that have been changed by heat, pressure, or chemically.

Front

What is the color characteristic of minerals?

Back

Minerals are usually the same color throughout, unlike some rocks which can have varied colors.