Minerals Flashcards
Mineral
A substance that is formed naturally in the earth, is inorganic,has a definite chemical composition and has a crystal structure.
Streak
The color of a mineral’s powder when it it rubbed against a porcelain plate.
Luster
The way the surface of a mineral reflects light.
Fracture
The appearance of freshly broken surface on a mineral that has a rough irregular surface.
Crystal
A solid formation that follows a pattern.
Cleavage
The tendency of crystals and minerals to break along definite planes resulting on smooth surfaces.
Mohs Hardness Scale
A hardness scale used to classify minerals.
Formula
A set of chemical symbols showing the makeup of a chemical compound.
Inorganic
Not derived from living matter.
Hardness
The ability of a mineral to scratch or be scratched by another mineral.
