Mineral Identification

What is luster?

• The way in which light reflects off the surface of a mineral

• The color of the mineral as a powder

• The elements that make up the mineral

• The way in which a mineral breaks

What is the purpose of the minerals chart?

• To show the names of all minerals on Earth

• To provide information about the properties of common minerals

• To explain the process of mineral formation

• To describe the uses of minerals in various industries

What is the distinguishing characteristic of Galena?

• It has a black streak

• It has a greasy feel

• It has a high density

• It has a salty taste

What is the color of graphite?

• Silver to gray

• Black

• Red brown

• Metallic silver

What is the main difference between metallic and nonmetallic luster?

• Metallic luster appears like a chunk of metal, while nonmetallic luster does not

• Metallic luster is shiny, while nonmetallic luster is dull

• Metallic luster reflects light in all directions, while nonmetallic luster reflects light in one direction

• Metallic luster is harder than nonmetallic luster

What is the use of pyrite?

• As an ore of sulfur

• In paint and roofing

• In jewelry

• In electronics

What is the composition of graphite?

• Carbon

• Sulfur

• Iron

• Calcium

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

What is the distinguishing characteristic of halite?

• It has a black streak

• It has a greasy feel

• It has a high density

• It has a salty taste

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

How light reflects off of a mineral is called the mineral's 

• luster
• streak
• cleavage
• fracture

Which test is not reliable in identifying minerals

• streak
• luster
• specific gravity
• color