2006-09-23 05:54:04 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
i studied this last year so now i for get but teres a web site you can go on
2006-09-23 05:56:18 · answer #1 · answered by taylor57mc 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The Crystalline structure would be a dead giveaway...but to answer your question: A mineral is defined as inorganic matter. It can be derived from organic matter such as petroleum or coal, but can not be organic in it's current state. So the main characteristic that qualifies quartz as a mineral is that it is not living, aka..not vegetable or animal.
Do not confuse the growth characteristics of crystalline substances as life. Crystals do grow, but this is a function of pressure and molecular bonding than organic reproduction.
2006-09-23 13:05:31 · answer #2 · answered by Lord L 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
A mineral has to be:
1) Naturally occuring
2) Inorganic
3) Crystalline Structure
4) Definite or limited chemical properties
5) Solid
Quartz is all of those. That is how you know it is a mineral.
2006-09-23 15:09:37 · answer #3 · answered by Kelly M 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋