Rocks and Minerals Flashcards
Mineral
a naturally formed, inorganic solid that has a definite crystal-line structure
Element
a substance that can’t be seperated or broken down into simpler substances by chemical means
Compound
a substance made up of atoms of two or more different elements joined by chemical 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 a mineral breaks along either curved or irregular surfaces
Density
The ratio of the mass of a substance to the volume of the substance
Ore
The naturally occurring material from which a mineral or minerals of economic value can be extracted
Color
the aspect of any object that may be described in terms of hue, lightness, and saturation
Metallic minerals
rocks that contain economically valuable concentrations of metals.
Non-metallic minerals
naturally occurring inorganic substances found under varying conditions and in different types of geological environments.
Gemstones
any of various minerals highly prized for beauty, durability, and rarity
Igneous rock
form when hot, molten rock crystallizes and solidifies
