6.6C Classifying Minerals Review

The streak of an unknown mineral sample is white. What is the best way to determine the streak?

• A. Scratch the sample with a steel knife.

• B. Rub the sample on a piece of unglazed pottery.

• C. Observe the sample under natural light.

• D. Break the sample with a rock hammer.

The mineral sample is rated 3 on the Mohs scale. What does that rating indicate?

• A. The sample's hardness

• B. The sample's luster

• C. The sample's streak

• D. The sample's cleavage

The streak of an unknown mineral sample is white. It has a hardness value of 3 and a perfect cleavage. Look at the table below and determine which mineral the sample could be.

• A. Calcite

• B. Muscovite

• C. Feldspar

• D. Biotite

Which of the following is the best description of luster?

• A. The way colors blend in a mineral sample.

• B. The way color and streak blend in a mineral sample.

• C. The way light is reflected or absorbed by a mineral sample.

• D. The way light changes the color of a mineral sample.

A mineral is able to scratch the mineral apatite, but is scratched by orthoclase feldspar. Which mineral is it?

• A. Mineral A

• B. Mineral B

• C. Mineral C

• D. Mineral D

A mineral is able to scratch gypsum but is scratched by calcite. What mineral is it?

• A. Mineral A

• B. Mineral B

• C. Mineral C

• D. Mineral D

Which of the statements about minerals is true?

• A. They are made only of rocks.

• B. They are the building blocks of rocks.

• C. They are made of living materials.

• D. They form only through evaporation.