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 of two or more different elements joined by chemical bonds.
Crystal
A solid whose atoms , ions, or molecules are arranged in a definite pattern.
Rock
the solid mineral material forming part of the surface of the earth and other similar planets, exposed on the surface or underlying the soil or oceans.
Color
Usually 1st 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 the volume of the substance.
Ore
a naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be profitably extracted.
Metallic Material
Metallic materials are defined as materials with metal properties.
Non-metallic Materials
Materials not within metal properties.
Gemstones
a precious or semiprecious stone, especially one cut, polished, and used in a piece of jewelry.
