Geology Quiz: Minerals and Rocks

Naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a definite chemical composition and crystal structure.

Found in nature, not made by humans.

Not formed from living things or their remains.

Specific elements and proportions.

Organized internal arrangement of atoms.

Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a definite chemical composition and crystal structure.

Crystal structure refers to the organized, repeating pattern in which atoms are arranged in a mineral. This arrangement can be simple, like salt, or complex, like gemstones.

Every mineral has a specific chemical formula with fixed proportions of elements. For example, quartz is always composed of silicon and oxygen in a 1:2 ratio.

The way a mineral breaks depends on its crystal structure. Minerals break along planes of weakness, leading to distinct patterns like cleavage or fracture.

Characteristics used to identify minerals like color, streak, luster, hardness, cleavage, fracture, and specific gravity.

The tendency of a mineral to break along smooth, flat planes due to its internal structure.

The way a mineral breaks when it doesn't cleave along smooth planes. It can be irregular, conchoidal, or splintery.

The color of a mineral's powder when rubbed against a streak plate.