Which property describes how a mineral breaks along defined planes?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the properties of minerals, specifically which term refers to the way a mineral splits along specific, flat surfaces or planes. The key concepts involve understanding mineralogy and the specific terminology used to describe mineral characteristics.
Answer
Cleavage
The property that describes how a mineral breaks along defined planes is cleavage.
Answer for screen readers
The property that describes how a mineral breaks along defined planes is cleavage.
More Information
Cleavage occurs due to weaknesses in a mineral's crystal lattice, causing it to break along flat planar surfaces.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing cleavage with fracture. Cleavage results in smooth, flat planes, while fracture results in uneven or rough surfaces.
Sources
- The web page with info on - Example Source - rocksminerals.flexiblelearning.auckland.ac.nz
- Mineral Identification Key Cleavage - minsocam.org
- 3.5.2: Cleavage, Fracture, and Parting - Geosciences LibreTexts - geo.libretexts.org
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