Rocks, Soils, Fossils - GSE unit 1 - 3rd science

Refer to the Mohs Hardness Scale. Which of the four minerals listed will scratch a piece of glass?

• calcite

• gypsum

• quartz

• talc

Based on the scratch test results, which of these statements is correct?

• Mineral P is the hardest mineral.

• Mineral R is the hardest mineral.

• Mineral P is harder than mineral Q.

• Mineral P is harder than mineral R.

Justin is observing a mineral. He takes the mineral and scratches it with his fingernail. A bit of mineral comes away under his nail. Which property of the mineral is Justin observing?

• Hardness

• Cleavage

• Luster

• Color

Justin is observing a mineral. He notices that the mineral is black with lighter edges. Which property of the mineral is Justin observing?

• Cleavage

• Color

• Streak

• Luster

Justin is observing a mineral. He notices the mineral has a metallic sheen. Which property of the mineral is Justin observing?

• Cleavage

• Hardness

• Luster

• Streak

How are rocks different from minerals?

• Rocks come in different colors.

• Rocks are combinations of minerals.

• Rocks are solids.

• Rocks are made up of elements.

One attribute used to classify rocks and minerals is color. Which of these minerals could be classified with jasper, shown in this image, based on color?

• 
• 
• 
• 

Rocks and minerals can be classified by a variety of properties, including luster. Which of these minerals has the most luster?

• A

• B

• C

• D

What makes sand different from the types of soils?

• It is used to grow crops.

• It has microscopic rock particles.

• It holds water well.

• It has small pieces of rock that are visible to the human eye.

What is a common characteristic of wet soils?

• Bright in color with a lot of humus

• Full of air

• Dark in color with a lot of humus

• Small mass