Rocks and 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 simpler substances by chemical means
Compound
a substance made up of atoms to two or more different elements joined by chemical bonds
Crystal
a solid whose atoms, ions, or molecules are arranged in a definite pattern
Color
usually the first characteristic noticed about a mineral, but generally not reliable
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 its volume D=m/v
Ore
a natural mineral whose concentration of economically valuable minerals is high enough for the material to be mined profitably
Metallic Minerals
have shiny faces and do not let light through; are usually good conductors for heat and electricity
Nonmetallic Minerals
have dull faces and often let light through; are usually good insulators of electricity
Gemstones
some nonmetallic minerals are called gemstones they are highly valuable and are used more for their beauty and rarity rather than their usefulness
Igneous Rock
made from the solidification of magma or lava
