what is a mineral?
A mineral has all of the following characteristics:
Natural
Inorganic
Solid material
Definite chemical composition
Crystal shape
Natural
Inorganic
Solid material
Definite chemical composition
Crystal shape
Physical properties
Color - the way a mineral appears
Texture - the mineral feels (waxy, smooth, rough, etc.)
Hardness - the ability of a mineral to resist scratching (Mohs Hardness Scale)
Streak - the color of the powder left on a streak plate (an unglazed porcelain plate)
Luster - the way light reflects off of a mineral (metallic and nonmetallic)
Cleavage/Fracture - the way a mineral breaks (smooth edges = cleavage, jagged edges = fracture)
Texture - the mineral feels (waxy, smooth, rough, etc.)
Hardness - the ability of a mineral to resist scratching (Mohs Hardness Scale)
Streak - the color of the powder left on a streak plate (an unglazed porcelain plate)
Luster - the way light reflects off of a mineral (metallic and nonmetallic)
Cleavage/Fracture - the way a mineral breaks (smooth edges = cleavage, jagged edges = fracture)
Chemical properties
Some minerals have the ability to burn, or to hold a flame when they are lit. Other minerals will react to acids, such as Hydrochloric acid, and fizz or bubble.
What is an ore?
Ores are minerals that are mined for their useful metals and nonmetals. Some examples include: Copper, Iron, Gold, and Silver.
what is a fossil fuel?
Fossil Fuels are fuels that come from the remains of living things and give off energy when they are burned. Some examples of fossil fuels are Coal, Oil, Natural Gas, and Petroleum.