Mohs Scale of Hardness

Talc is the softest mineral on Mohs Hardness Scale.

• True

• False

Gypsum will scratch talc.

• True

• False

Orthoclase will scratch corundum.

• True

• False

Based on the table, which statement is true?

• corundum will scratch diamond

• quartz will scratch corundum

• calcite will scratch orthoclase

• orthoclase will scratch fluorite

What does the table show?

• mineral content

• mineral reactivity

• mineral hardness

• mineral solubility

Quartz will scratch calcite.

• True

• False

Which of these minerals is softest?

• orthoclase

• corundum

• gypsum

• fluorite

Topaz will scratch diamond.

• True

• False

Which of these minerals is hardest?

• apatite

• calcite

• quartz

• topaz

Which statement comparing mineral hardness is true?

• calcite will only scratch gypsum

• calcite will only scratch gypsum and talc

• calcite will scratch any mineral softer than 3

• calcite will scratch any mineral harder than 3