Big 5 Characteristics
Properties of Minerals
Properties Tests
Special Properties
Random
100

Has a definite volume and shape.

Must be a Solid

100

The repeating pattern of a mineral's particles form a solid called a what?

Crystal

100

What tools do you use to test a mineral's hardness?

Your fingernail, copper penny, glass plate, or a steel nail.

100

What is it called when a mineral is attracted to magnets?

Magnetism.

100

Is ice a mineral?

Yes, as long as it doesn't come from your fridge.

200

Cannot be made my man, formed by natural processes that occur on Earth.

Naturally Occurring.

200

If you can scratch a mineral with your fingernail, is the hardness greater or less than 2.5?

Less than 2.5

200

What tools do you use to test a mineral's streak?

A streak plate.
200

We use vinegar during this test to see how the mineral reacts.

Reaction to acid test.

200

Why do some minerals sparkle? While others look dull.

Because of their luster, the way light reflects off of it.

300

Always made of the same things. Ex: Water is always going to be 2 Hydrogen and 1 Oxygen atom.

Definite Chemical Composition

300

Whats the difference between a minerals streak and its color?

Streak is the powder left over on a streak plate, where color is just the observable color of the mineral.
300

What are the 4 types of luster?

Metallic, glassy, pearly, and dull.

300

What is it called when the mineral is shown twice on top of text?

Double image

300

What is the hardest mineral? Think back to Mohs Scale.

Diamond

400

The arrangement of atoms and molecules in the mineral.

Crystalline Structure

400

What is the color of a minerals powder called?

Streak

400

How do you find the density of a mineral?

Use the density formula, density=mass/volume

400
Some minerals produce an odor, what is an example of a mineral that smells like rotten eggs?

Sulfur

400

Which mineral is known for its "Glassy" appearance?

Quartz

500

Never has and never will be living.

Inorganic

500

The way a mineral reflects light is called its what?

Luster

500

What are two ways mineral's tend to break?

Into pyramid shapes, cubes, rectangles, rhombus, hexagonal, or irregular.
500

Which mineral is able to write on paper?

Graphite.

500

Which mineral is in your drywall at home?

Gypsum

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