Front

What is the LEAST useful way to identify a mineral?

Back

Color is the least useful way to identify a mineral because it can vary widely among different specimens of the same mineral.

Front

What does Luster refer to in minerals?

Back

Luster describes how light reflects off the surface of a mineral, indicating whether it is metallic or non-metallic.

Front

If a mineral can be scratched by a fingernail, what is its hardness ranking?

Back

The hardness ranking for a mineral that can be scratched by a fingernail is 2.

Front

What type of rock commonly has holes or gas bubbles?

Back

Igneous rocks commonly have holes or gas bubbles due to the rapid cooling of lava.

Front

What process occurs at high temperatures and pressures in rocks?

Back

Heat and Pressure are processes that can change the structure and composition of rocks, leading to metamorphism.

Front

What is the definition of a mineral?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between igneous and sedimentary rocks?

Back

Igneous rocks form from cooled magma or lava, while sedimentary rocks form from the accumulation of sediments.

Front

What is the Mohs scale?

Back

The Mohs scale is a scale used to measure the hardness of minerals, ranging from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).

Front

What is the process of weathering?

Back

Weathering is the breaking down of rocks and minerals through natural processes such as wind, water, and temperature changes.

Front

What is compaction in geology?

Back

Compaction is the process by which sediments are pressed together under pressure, reducing their volume.