Minerals Quiz

What is a mineral?

• A natural substance made by living organisms

• A solid material that forms by a natural process

• A compound made of carbon and oxygen

• A liquid substance with a definite chemical composition

What are the physical properties used to identify minerals?

• Crystal structure, hardness, and color

• Density, transparency, and shape

• Melting point, boiling point, and conductivity

• Malleability, ductility, and luster

Can a mineral be made by a process that is not natural?

• Yes, as long as it has a definite chemical composition

• No, minerals can only be formed by natural processes

• Yes, if it is a compound made of carbon and oxygen

• No, minerals can only be made by living organisms

What is the difference between a mineral and an organic substance?

• Minerals are made by living organisms, while organic substances are not

• Minerals are inorganic, while organic substances always contain carbon

• Minerals have a definite chemical composition, while organic substances do not

• Minerals are solid, while organic substances can be solid, liquid, or gas

What is the primary component of the mineral calcite?

• Sodium chloride

• Calcium carbonate

• Silicon dioxide

• Iron oxide

Which of the following is NOT a physical property of minerals?

• Crystal structure

• Hardness

• Density

• Transparency

What determines a mineral's crystal shape?

• Its color

• Its hardness

• The way the atoms are arranged

• Its density

Which of the following is an example of an inorganic substance?

• Protein

• Carbohydrate

• Oil

• Salt

What is the primary component of both diamond and graphite?

• Hydrogen

• Oxygen

• Carbon

• Nitrogen

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for a substance to be considered a mineral?

• Solid

• Inorganic

• Definite chemical composition

• Made by living organisms