Exploring the World of Minerals 2.2

Which of the following techniques is commonly used to identify minerals based on their hardness?

• Streak test

• Mohs scale

• Acid test

• Magnetism

Answer explanation

The Mohs scale is a standard method used to measure the hardness of minerals, ranking them from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond). It helps identify minerals based on their ability to scratch or be scratched by other substances.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the primary component of the silicon-oxygen tetrahedron?

• One silicon atom and four oxygen atoms

• Four silicon atoms and one oxygen atom

• Two silicon atoms and two oxygen atoms

• Three silicon atoms and three oxygen atoms

Answer explanation

The silicon-oxygen tetrahedron consists of one silicon atom bonded to four oxygen atoms, forming a tetrahedral shape. This structure is fundamental in silicate minerals, making the first answer choice correct.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which property of minerals is determined by observing the color of the powder left behind when a mineral is rubbed against a porcelain plate?

• Luster

• Streak

• Cleavage

• Fracture

Answer explanation

The property determined by the color of the powder left when a mineral is rubbed against a porcelain plate is called 'streak'. This helps identify minerals, as their streak color can differ from their surface color.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which mineral formation process involves the cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

• Metamorphism

• Sedimentation

• Crystallization

• Evaporation

Answer explanation

Crystallization is the process where minerals form as magma or lava cools and solidifies. This distinguishes it from metamorphism, sedimentation, and evaporation, which involve different geological processes.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following minerals is most commonly used in the production of glass?

• Calcite

• Quartz

• Hematite

• Gypsum

Answer explanation

Quartz is the primary mineral used in glass production due to its high silica content, which is essential for creating glass. Other options like calcite, hematite, and gypsum are not commonly used in glassmaking.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the economic importance of bauxite?

• It is used in the production of steel.

• It is the primary ore of aluminum.

• It is used as a gemstone.

• It is a source of sulfur.

Answer explanation

Bauxite is economically important because it is the primary ore of aluminum, which is essential for various industries, including transportation, construction, and packaging. The other options do not accurately represent its significance.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which mineral is commonly found in household items such as talcum powder?

• Feldspar

• Talc

• Mica

• Pyrite

Answer explanation

Talc is the mineral commonly found in household items like talcum powder. It is known for its softness and is used in various cosmetic products, making it the correct answer.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is a significant environmental impact of mining activities?

• Increased biodiversity

• Soil erosion

• Improved air quality

• Decreased water pollution

Answer explanation

Mining activities often lead to soil erosion due to the removal of vegetation and disruption of the land. This can result in loss of topsoil and degradation of the ecosystem, making soil erosion a significant environmental impact.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

• Silicates

• Oxides

• Carbonates

• Sulfides

Answer explanation

The mineral group characterized by the presence of the carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻) is the Carbonates. This distinguishes them from other groups like Silicates, Oxides, and Sulfides, which contain different anions.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following minerals is known for its perfect cleavage in one direction, making it easy to split into thin sheets?

• Quartz

• Mica

• Feldspar

• Olivine

Answer explanation

Mica is known for its perfect cleavage in one direction, allowing it to easily split into thin sheets. This characteristic distinguishes it from quartz, feldspar, and olivine, which do not exhibit this type of cleavage.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept