Minerals - ESRT

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What is a mineral?

Back

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

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What does the hardness of a mineral indicate?

Back

The ability of a mineral to resist scratching, measured on the Mohs scale.

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What is the Mohs scale?

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A scale that ranks minerals based on their hardness from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).

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What is luster in minerals?

Back

The way a mineral reflects light, which can be metallic, glassy, dull, etc.

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What is streak in mineralogy?

Back

The color of the powder produced when a mineral is scratched on a streak plate.

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What is cleavage in minerals?

Back

The tendency of a mineral to break along flat, even surfaces.

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What is fracture in minerals?

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The way a mineral breaks when it does not cleave; it can be uneven, conchoidal, or fibrous.

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What is the difference between metallic and non-metallic minerals?

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Metallic minerals have a shiny appearance and conduct electricity, while non-metallic minerals do not.

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What is an example of a mineral used in jewelry?

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Hematite, which is often used in various types of jewelry.

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How can you determine if a mineral can scratch glass?

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If a mineral can scratch glass, it has a hardness greater than 5.5 on the Mohs scale.