Minerals Review

Front

What is cleavage in minerals?

Back

Cleavage is when a mineral breaks along smooth planes, creating flat surfaces.

Front

How do the color and the streak of a mineral differ?

Back

The color of the streak can be different than the mineral color.

Front

What does streak mean in mineralogy?

Back

Streak is the color of a mineral’s powder that is left behind when it is scratched on a surface.

Front

What is meant by definite chemical composition in minerals?

Back

Definite chemical composition means that a mineral contains certain elements in the same proportion.

Front

Why is coal not considered a mineral?

Back

Coal is organic, and a mineral must be inorganic.

Front

What is luster in minerals?

Back

Luster refers to the way in which a mineral reflects light.

Front

What is hardness in the context of minerals?

Back

Hardness is a measure of a mineral's ability to resist scratching.

Front

What is the difference between fracture and cleavage?

Back

Fracture is when a mineral breaks unevenly, while cleavage is when it breaks along smooth planes.

Front

What are the three main types of rocks?

Back

The three main types of rocks are igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

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