Minerals Quiz

What is the definition of a mineral?

• An inorganic solid of natural origin with a defined chemical composition

• An organic solid of natural origin with a variable chemical composition

• A synthetic inorganic solid with a defined chemical composition

• A synthetic organic solid with a variable chemical composition

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• Naturally occurring

• Inorganic

• Formed from living organisms or remains of living organisms

• Having a defined chemical composition

Why is coal not considered a mineral?

• Because it is synthetic

• Because it comes from plants

• Because it is a liquid

• Because it does not have a defined chemical composition

Why is amber not classified as a mineral?

• Because it is a rock

• Because it is too hard

• Because it comes from tree sap

• Because it is a fossil

Why are pearls not considered minerals?

• Because they are too valuable

• Because they are made by humans

• Because they come from oysters

• Because they are not inorganic

What do solids have that liquids do not have?

• A) A defined volume but undefined shape

• B) A defined shape but undefined volume

• C) Neither a defined shape nor a defined volume

• D) Both a defined volume and a defined shape

Why is oil not considered a mineral?

• A) Because it is a solid

• B) Because it is a crystal

• C) Because it is a liquid

• D) Because it is a gas

What causes crystalline structures?

• A) Its external arrangement of atoms

• B) Its molecular weight

• C) Its internal arrangement of atoms

• D) Its chemical composition

How are minerals formed from lava or magma?

• A) From rapid heating

• B) From rapid cooling

• C) From pressure

• D) From evaporation

What is left behind when water evaporates?

• A) Dissolved gases

• B) Dissolved minerals

• C) Organic matter

• D) Nothing remains