Minerals Flashcard

Front

What is a mineral?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean if a rock has three different colors?

Back

It means the rock is made up of three different minerals.

Front

What is the streak test in mineralogy?

Back

The streak test is a method used to determine the color of a mineral in powdered form by rubbing it on a porcelain plate.

Front

What is Moh's hardness scale?

Back

Moh's hardness scale is a scale that ranks minerals based on their ability to scratch one another, ranging from Talc (1) to Diamond (10).

Front

What is buoyancy?

Back

Buoyancy is the ability of an object to float in water.

Front

What is the definition of cleavage in minerals?

Back

Cleavage is the tendency of a mineral to break along flat, even surfaces.

Front

What is luster in mineralogy?

Back

Luster refers to the way light interacts with the surface of a mineral, indicating its shine or dullness.

Front

What is the difference between organic and inorganic minerals?

Back

Organic minerals are derived from living organisms, while inorganic minerals are not derived from living matter.

Front

What is the significance of color in minerals?

Back

Color can help identify minerals, but it is not always reliable due to impurities.

Front

What is a rock?

Back

A rock is a solid mass composed of one or more minerals or mineraloids.