What is a Mineral?

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What is a Mineral?

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

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What does CRYSTAL STRUCTURE mean?

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It means that the atoms in a mineral form a pattern.

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What does SOLID mean in the context of minerals?

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It means that the substance is not a liquid or gas.

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What does INORGANIC mean?

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It means that the substance is not made from living things.

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What characteristic makes scientists debate if ice is a mineral?

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The characteristic is that ice is solid.

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What is an example of a mineral with a crystal structure?

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Sulfur is an example, as its atoms form a repeating pattern.

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What is the definition of naturally occurring?

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Naturally occurring means that the mineral is found in nature and not made by humans.

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What is meant by definite chemical composition?

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It means that a mineral has a specific chemical formula that defines its composition.

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Can minerals be made by people?

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No, minerals are not made by people; they are naturally occurring.

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What is the difference between a mineral and a rock?

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