2007-03-03 13:12:03 · 3 answers · asked by sandra l 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
A mineral is a pure solid material. It has its own set of properties which make it different from other minerals. Hardness, luster, color, density, and more are measured to determine the mineral. A mineral is either an element or a compound. A rock can have of different types of minerals in the same rock.
2007-03-03 14:15:28 · answer #1 · answered by physandchemteach 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wikipedia gives a good definition and explanation:
Minerals are natural compounds formed through geological processes. The term "mineral" encompasses not only the material's chemical composition, but also the mineral's structure. Minerals range in composition from pure elements and simple salts to very complex silicates with thousands of known forms. The study of minerals is called mineralogy.
To be classified as a "true" mineral, a substance must be a solid and have a crystal structure. It must also be a naturally-occurring, homogeneous substance with a defined chemical composition. Traditional definitions excluded organically derived material. However, the International Mineralogical Association in 1995 adopted a new definition:
a mineral is an element or chemical compound that is normally crystalline and that has been formed as a result of geological processes.
Physical properties include:
specific gravity (density)
color
hardness
luster
streak
crystal structure and habit
cleavage
fracture
fluorescence
megnetism
radioactivity
tenacity
piezoelectricity
2007-03-04 02:11:32 · answer #2 · answered by GatorGal 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The field guide for Rocks and Mineral of North America is a very good resource for this topic!
2007-03-04 08:03:29 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋