Classifying Rocks by Their Attributes

Front

What is luster in rocks?

Back

Luster is the way a rock reflects light. It can be shiny, dull, or glassy.

Front

What does the color of a rock tell us?

Back

The color of a rock helps us identify it and can indicate its mineral content.

Front

What is texture in rocks?

Back

Texture describes how a rock feels, such as rough, smooth, gritty, or bumpy.

Front

How can we classify rocks based on hardness?

Back

Rocks can be classified as soft, medium hardness, or hard based on how easily they can be scratched.

Front

What type of rock has a high luster?

Back

A shiny, metallic rock has a high luster.

Front

What does it mean if a rock is described as rough?

Back

A rough rock has a texture that feels uneven and can be gritty.

Front

What is the difference between luster and texture?

Back

Luster refers to how a rock reflects light, while texture refers to how it feels.

Front

What is an example of a soft rock?

Back

A rock that can be easily scratched by a fingernail is considered soft.

Front

What does a glassy appearance in a rock indicate?

Back

A glassy appearance usually indicates a high luster.

Front

How do we determine the hardness of a rock?

Back

We determine hardness by testing how easily it can be scratched by other materials.