The Mohs scale
The thin outer layer of the earth
crust
The characteristic of a mineral to break along smooth, straight lines or into flat sheets is called
cleavage
A_________studies the structure, rocks, and minerals of the earth.
geologist
True or False
If a substance is a mineral, it cannot be a metal.
False
Obsidian is a type of __________rock.
igneous
The center of the earth
core
The color of the mark made when a mineral sample is rubbed on a harder surface is called the
streak
The movement of sediment from one place to another is known as
erosion
metamorphic
The way that a mineral reflects light is called its
luster
Most of the earth's mass is in the
mantle
Rock formed by heat and pressure deep below the earth's crust is called
metamorphic
Gemstones that are beautiful and rare are called
precious stones
a rock-like substance that forms from decayed plant matter
coal
The ability of a mineral to resist scratching is called
hardness
An inorganic substance found naturally in the earth
a mineral
Rock that forms when layers of sediment and organic material harden is called
sedimentary
True or False
The hot melted rock that makes up the mantle of the earth is called lava.
False
Melted rock underground is called magma. The magma that flows from an opening onto the surface is called lava.
Limestone is a type of ____________rock.
sedimentary
A hard, natural substance made of one or more minerals that contain organic materials is called
a rock
A substance made of things that were never alive is
inorganic
Rock formed from magma or volcanic lava is called
igneous
True or False
Weathering produces small bits of weathered rock called humus.
False
Soil is made of bits of weathered rock and other materials. Organic particles in the soil are called humus. Humus forms from decayed plants and animals.
The loose material on the surface of the earth is chich plants can grow.
soil
A mineral that can be cut and polished for use is called a
gemstone