MINERAL VOCABULARY

Question 1

MINERAL

Answer 1

A substance that is formed naturally in the Earth, is inorganic, has a definite chemical composition and has a crystal structure.

Question 2

STREAK

Answer 2

The color of a mineral’s powder when it is rubbed against a porcelain plate.

Question 3

LUSTER

Answer 3

The way the surface of a mineral reflects light.

Question 4

INORGANIC

Answer 4

Not derived from living matter.

Question 5

CRYSTAL

Answer 5

A solid formation that follows a pattern.

Question 6

HARDNESS

Answer 6

The ability of a mineral to scratch or be scratched by another mineral.

Question 7

CLEAVAGE

Answer 7

The tendency of crystals and minerals to break along definite planes resulting in smooth surfaces.

Question 8

FRACTURE

Answer 8

The appearance of a freshly broken surface on a mineral that has a rough or irregular surface.

Question 9

MOHS HARDNESS SCALE

Answer 9

A hardness scale used to clarify minerals.

Question 10

FORMULA

Answer 10

A set of chemicals symbols showing the makeup of the chemical compound.