minerals Flashcards
mineral
a naturally formed inorganic solid that has a definite crystalline structure
element
a substance that cannot be separated or broken down into into simpler substances by chemical
compound
a substance made up of atoms of two or more different elements joined by chemicals means
crystal
a solid whose atoms,ions or molecules are arranged in a definite pattern
luster
the way in which a mineral reflects light
streak
the color of the powder of a mineral
cleavage
the splitting of a mineral along smooth flat surfaces
fracture
the manner in which mineral breaks along either curved or irregular surfaces
rocks
a naturally occurring solid mixture of one ore more minerals or organic matter
hardness
A measure of the ability of a mineral to resist scratching
color
usually 1st characteristic noticed about a mineral, but not always reliable
density
the ratio of mass of the substance to the volume of the substance
ore
A natural material whose concentration of minerals is high enough for the material to be mined for a profit
Metallic minerals
Shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity
Nonmetallic minerals
Shiny or dull, good insulators of electricity
gemstones
Some minerals are highly valuable for their beauty and rarity
. Igneous rock
form when hot, molten rock crystallizes and solidifies. The melt originates deep within the Earth near active
Sedimentary rock
Sedimentary rocks are one of three main types of rocks, along with igneous and metamorphic. They are formed on or near the Earth’s surface
