Earth Science Quiz S1 #2

What is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust?

• Aluminum

• Silicon

• Oxygen

• Iron

Answer explanation

Oxygen is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust, making up about 46.6% by weight. Silicon follows as the second most abundant, comprising about 27.7%. Therefore, the correct answer is Silicon.

Which mineral is known for its property of double refraction?

• Quartz

• Halite

• Calcite

• Pyrite

Answer explanation

Calcite is known for its property of double refraction, where light splits into two rays when passing through it. This optical characteristic distinguishes it from other minerals like quartz, halite, and pyrite.

How is the hardness of a mineral determined?

• By its color

• By its ability to scratch other substances

• By its density

• By its luster

Answer explanation

The hardness of a mineral is determined by its ability to scratch other substances, as described by the Mohs scale. This property allows for a comparative measure of hardness among different minerals.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a mineral?

• Naturally occurring

• Organic

• Definite chemical composition

• Crystalline structure

Answer explanation

Minerals are defined as naturally occurring, inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure. Therefore, 'Organic' is NOT a characteristic of a mineral.

What is the streak of a mineral?

• The color of the mineral in powdered form

• The mineral's luster

• The mineral's ability to reflect light

• The mineral's density

Answer explanation

The streak of a mineral refers to the color it produces when it is powdered. This property is useful for identifying minerals, as the streak can differ from the mineral's external color.

Which mineral is commonly used in the production of glass?

• Hematite

• Feldspar

• Calcite

• Pyrite

Answer explanation

Feldspar is a key ingredient in glass production due to its ability to lower the melting temperature and improve the glass's durability. Other minerals listed, like hematite and pyrite, are not used in glassmaking.

Which of the following minerals has a metallic luster?

• Talc

• Galena

• Fluorite

• Gypsum

Answer explanation

Galena is the only mineral listed that exhibits a metallic luster, characterized by its shiny, reflective surface. In contrast, talc, fluorite, and gypsum have non-metallic lusters.

What is the Mohs scale used for?

• Measuring mineral density

• Measuring mineral hardness

• Measuring mineral luster

• Measuring mineral color

Answer explanation

The Mohs scale is specifically designed to measure mineral hardness, ranking minerals based on their ability to scratch one another. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Measuring mineral hardness'.

Which element most likely forms a mineral with a cubic crystal structure?

• Carbon

• Sodium

• Calcium

• Iron

Answer explanation

Iron commonly forms minerals with a cubic crystal structure, such as pyrite and magnetite. While carbon, sodium, and calcium can form various structures, iron is the most likely to exhibit a cubic arrangement.

Which mineral is known for its strong magnetic properties?

• Magnetite

• Hematite

• Pyrite

• Galena

Answer explanation

Magnetite is the mineral known for its strong magnetic properties, making it the most magnetic naturally occurring mineral. In contrast, hematite, pyrite, and galena do not exhibit significant magnetism.