Minerals Flashcard

Front

What are minerals?

Back

Naturally occurring inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure.

Front

What are ores?

Back

Minerals from which metals can be removed in usable amounts.

Front

What is the Mohs scale?

Back

A scale used to measure the hardness of minerals, ranging from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).

Front

What is a mineral vein?

Back

A mineral deposit beneath Earth's surface that is different from the surrounding rocks.

Front

What is the primary state of matter for minerals?

Back

Solid.

Front

What are gemstones?

Back

Precious or semi-precious stones that are cut and polished for use in jewelry.

Front

What is density?

Back

The mass of a substance divided by its volume, commonly measured in grams per cubic centimeter.

Front

What is the formula for calculating density?

Back

Density = Mass/Volume.

Front

What is luster in minerals?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a mineral and a rock?

Back

Minerals are single substances, while rocks are composed of one or more minerals.