Rock And Mineral Trivia Quiz!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The Mohs scale measures
- A.
Density of a mineral
- B.
A mineral's hardness
- C.
The luster of a mineral
- D.
A mineral's type of crystalline structure
Correct Answer
B. A mineral's hardnessExplanation
The Mohs scale is a scale used to measure the hardness of minerals. It ranks minerals from 1 to 10 based on their ability to scratch or be scratched by other minerals. Therefore, the correct answer is "a mineral's hardness".Rate this question:
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- 2.
Diamond is
- A.
The hardest mineral on the Mohs scale
- B.
A nonmetallic element
- C.
The only mineral with luster
- D.
An iosotope of silicone
Correct Answer
A. The hardest mineral on the Mohs scaleExplanation
Diamond is the hardest mineral on the Mohs scale because it has a perfect crystal structure with strong covalent bonds between its carbon atoms. This gives diamond its exceptional hardness, making it able to scratch all other minerals. The Mohs scale is a scale of mineral hardness, with diamond being assigned the highest value of 10. Therefore, diamond is known for its exceptional hardness and is considered the hardest mineral on the Mohs scale.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Gold, silver and copper are examples of:
- A.
Carbonate minerals
- B.
Native elements
- C.
Fluorescent minerals
- D.
Minerals that have a distinct smell
Correct Answer
B. Native elementsExplanation
Gold, silver, and copper are examples of native elements because they occur naturally in their pure form, without being combined with other elements. They are not carbonate minerals, which are compounds containing carbon and oxygen. They are also not fluorescent minerals, which exhibit a visible glow under ultraviolet light. Additionally, there is no mention of minerals with a distinct smell, so it is not relevant to this question.Rate this question:
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- 4.
If a mineral breaks along flat or even surfaces, it has
- A.
Luster
- B.
Fracture
- C.
Cleavage
- D.
Streak
Correct Answer
C. CleavageExplanation
If a mineral breaks along flat or even surfaces, it has cleavage. Cleavage is a property of minerals that describes the way they break along specific planes of weakness. These planes of weakness are determined by the arrangement of atoms within the mineral's crystal structure. When a mineral has cleavage, it means that it breaks cleanly along these planes, resulting in flat or even surfaces. This is different from fracture, which refers to the way a mineral breaks irregularly or unevenly.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A mineral CANNOT be
- A.
Solid
- B.
Formed from once-living material
- C.
Naturally occurring
- D.
Light in color
Correct Answer
B. Formed from once-living materialExplanation
Minerals must meet five characteristics to be considered a mineral: solid, inorganic, naturally occurring, have a crystal structure and definite chemical composition.Rate this question:
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- 6.
. Name this mineral that has a property of double refraction.
Correct Answer
calciteExplanation
Calcite is a mineral that exhibits the property of double refraction. Double refraction occurs when light passing through the mineral is split into two rays, each traveling at a different speed and direction. This phenomenon is a result of the crystal structure of calcite, which has different refractive indices along different crystallographic axes. As a result of double refraction, objects viewed through calcite appear doubled or distorted.Rate this question:
- 7.
What is the difference between a rock and a mineral?
- A.
A mineral is more valuable
- B.
A rock can be made of minerals
- C.
A rock is prettier
- D.
Choices A and B
Correct Answer
D. Choices A and BExplanation
The correct answer is choices A and B. A mineral is more valuable because it has a specific chemical composition and crystal structure, which makes it useful for various purposes. On the other hand, a rock can be made of minerals, as rocks are composed of different minerals or mineraloids. Therefore, the difference between a rock and a mineral lies in their composition and value.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following is an example of a mineral resource?
- A.
Sand
- B.
Petroleum
- C.
Gold
- D.
All answers apply
Correct Answer
D. All answers applyExplanation
All of the given options (sand, petroleum, and gold) are examples of mineral resources. Sand is a naturally occurring granular material composed of finely divided rock and mineral particles. Petroleum, also known as crude oil, is a naturally occurring liquid found beneath the Earth's surface and is composed of various hydrocarbons. Gold is a precious metal that is often found in its natural form as nuggets or grains within rocks and rivers. Therefore, all of these options can be classified as mineral resources.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which one of the following describes a mineral's response to surface breakage?
- A.
Streak
- B.
Luster
- C.
Crystal form
- D.
Cleavage
Correct Answer
D. CleavageExplanation
Cleavage describes a mineral's response to surface breakage. It refers to the way in which a mineral breaks along flat, even surfaces. Cleavage is determined by the internal arrangement of atoms in the mineral's crystal structure. When a mineral exhibits cleavage, it breaks into smooth, flat surfaces that are parallel to each other. The number and angle of these surfaces can vary depending on the mineral. Cleavage is an important property used in mineral identification.Rate this question:
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- 10.
You can identify a mineral by only using one property.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
This statement is false because minerals cannot be identified by only using one property. Minerals have multiple properties such as color, hardness, luster, cleavage, and specific gravity, among others. To accurately identify a mineral, it is necessary to consider and analyze multiple properties in combination.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Where are most minerals found?
- A.
Earth's inner core
- B.
Earth's outer core
- C.
In outer space
- D.
Earth's crust
Correct Answer
D. Earth's crustExplanation
Most minerals are found in Earth's crust. The Earth's crust is the outermost layer of the planet and is composed of various minerals. It is the part of the Earth that we live on and interact with. The crust contains a wide range of minerals, including metals, gemstones, and rocks. These minerals are formed through geological processes such as volcanic activity, erosion, and deposition. The crust is the most accessible and abundant source of minerals, making it the primary location for mining and extraction activities.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Minerals have different properties that help scientists identify them. Which is not a property used to identify minerals?
- A.
Hardness
- B.
Luster
- C.
Size
- D.
Color
Correct Answer
C. SizeExplanation
Size is not a property used to identify minerals. Minerals are identified based on their physical and chemical properties, such as hardness, luster, and color. Size refers to the dimensions or measurements of a mineral specimen, which can vary and are not unique to a specific mineral. Therefore, size alone cannot be used as a reliable property for mineral identification.Rate this question:
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- 13.
All silicate minerals contain which two elements?
- A.
Silicon and oxygen
- B.
Oxygen and carbon
- C.
Iron and silicon
- D.
Silicon and sodium
Correct Answer
A. Silicon and oxygenExplanation
Silicate minerals are minerals that contain silicon and oxygen as their main components. Silicon and oxygen are the two elements that are present in all silicate minerals. Silicate minerals make up the majority of the Earth's crust and are essential components of rocks and minerals.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Hardness is a property that helps identify minerals. Scientists use a scale of 1-10 to show the hardness of a mineral. What number would be given to the hardest?
- A.
5
- B.
0
- C.
1
- D.
10
Correct Answer
D. 10Explanation
The question asks for the number that would be given to the hardest mineral on the hardness scale. The scale ranges from 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest level of hardness. Therefore, the correct answer is 10.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What mineral is the hardest known substance in nature?
- A.
Muscovite
- B.
Native gold
- C.
Diamond
- D.
Silicate
Correct Answer
C. DiamondExplanation
Diamond is the hardest known substance in nature because of its unique atomic structure. Each carbon atom in a diamond is bonded to four other carbon atoms in a rigid, three-dimensional lattice structure. This arrangement creates extremely strong bonds, making diamond exceptionally hard. It is able to withstand scratching and has a high resistance to wear, making it the hardest mineral known. Muscovite, native gold, and silicate are not as hard as diamond and do not possess the same level of durability and resistance to scratching.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A silicate tetrahedron is surrounded by ________.
- A.
4 oxygen atoms
- B.
6 sodium atoms
- C.
6 oxygen atoms
- D.
4 sodium atoms
Correct Answer
A. 4 oxygen atomsExplanation
A silicate tetrahedron is a structure consisting of a central silicon atom bonded to four oxygen atoms. Therefore, it is surrounded by 4 oxygen atoms.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Name this mineral. It is second hardest to a diamond.
Correct Answer
corundumExplanation
Corundum is a mineral that is known for its hardness, being second only to diamond. It is a crystalline form of aluminum oxide and is commonly used as an abrasive due to its hardness. Corundum can be found in various colors, including blue, red, and pink, and is also the mineral that forms sapphires and rubies.Rate this question:
- 18.
Name this mineral. It is the official mineral of Illinois.
Correct Answer
fluoriteExplanation
Fluorite is the correct answer because it is the official mineral of Illinois. This means that it has been designated by the state as a representative mineral. Fluorite is a colorful mineral that is commonly found in Illinois, particularly in the southern part of the state. It is known for its vibrant hues and is often used in jewelry and decorative items.Rate this question:
- 19.
Name this mineral. It is extremely dense.
Correct Answer
galenaExplanation
Galena is a mineral that is known for its extreme density. It is a lead sulfide mineral that has a high specific gravity, making it one of the densest common minerals. Galena is often found in metallic ore deposits and is a major source of lead. Its density and metallic luster make it easily distinguishable from other minerals.Rate this question:
- 20.
Name this mineral. There are paperclips attached to it do to its magnetic properties
Correct Answer
magnetiteExplanation
Magnetite is a mineral that exhibits strong magnetic properties. This is due to its composition, which contains iron oxide. When paperclips are attached to it, it indicates that the mineral is able to attract and hold metallic objects due to its magnetism. Therefore, the correct answer is magnetite.Rate this question:
- 21.
Name this mineral. It cleaves paper thin.
Correct Answer
muscovite micaExplanation
Muscovite mica is the correct answer because it is a mineral that can easily cleave into paper-thin sheets. Muscovite mica is a type of mica that has excellent cleavage properties, allowing it to be easily split into thin layers. This characteristic makes it useful in various applications, including as an insulator in electrical equipment and as a component in cosmetics.Rate this question:
- 22.
Name this mineral. It has a distince color and cleavage.
Correct Answer
feldsparExplanation
Feldspar is a mineral that can be easily identified by its distinct color and cleavage. It comes in a variety of colors, including white, pink, gray, and green. Its cleavage is also characteristic, as it tends to break along flat planes. Feldspar is a common mineral found in many types of rocks, making it a widely recognized mineral in the field of geology.Rate this question:
- 23.
Name this mineral. It's color is very distinctive.
Correct Answer
pyriteExplanation
Pyrite is a mineral that can be easily identified by its distinctive color. It has a brassy yellow color that is often described as "fool's gold" due to its resemblance to gold. Its color is one of its most defining characteristics, making it easily recognizable.Rate this question:
- 24.
Name this mineral. It has a very distinct smell.
Correct Answer
sulfurExplanation
Sulfur is a mineral that has a very distinct smell. It is known for its strong, pungent odor, often described as resembling rotten eggs. This smell is a characteristic feature of sulfur and can be easily recognized.Rate this question:
- 25.
Name this mineral. It is often found in a powder form for its everyday use.
Correct Answer
talcExplanation
Talc is a mineral that is commonly found in a powder form for everyday use. It is known for its softness and is often used in cosmetic products such as talcum powder and baby powder. Talc is also used in the production of ceramics, paint, and paper. It has a greasy or soapy feel and is easily crumbled into a fine powder. Talc is composed mainly of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, and is classified as a phyllosilicate mineral.Rate this question:
- 26.
What color streak would this mineral have? (white, black, yellow or colorless)
Correct Answer
yellowExplanation
The mineral would have a yellow streak.Rate this question:
- 27.
What type of luster does this mineral have metallic or nonmetallic?
Correct Answer
nonmetallicExplanation
The mineral has a nonmetallic luster, which means it does not have the shine or reflectivity of a metal. Nonmetallic luster can range from dull to glassy or pearly, depending on the specific mineral.Rate this question:
- 28.
Does this mineral cleave or fracture?
Correct Answer
fractureExplanation
Fracture refers to the way a mineral breaks when it does not exhibit a preferred cleavage. Instead of breaking along flat, smooth surfaces, minerals that fracture will break irregularly, producing rough and uneven surfaces. This can be due to the absence of a cleavage plane or the presence of impurities or structural irregularities within the mineral.Rate this question:
- 29.
What is the common name for this mineral?
Correct Answer
fool's goldExplanation
Fool's gold is the common name for the mineral pyrite. It earned this name because it has a similar appearance to gold, with a bright metallic luster and a yellowish color. However, fool's gold is actually composed of iron sulfide, while gold is a precious metal. The name "fool's gold" implies that it can deceive people into thinking they have found gold when in reality it is a different mineral.Rate this question:
- 30.
Does this mineral cleave or fracture?
Correct Answer
fractureExplanation
Fracture refers to the way a mineral breaks when it is not along a cleavage plane. Instead of breaking along smooth, flat surfaces, it breaks irregularly and often with jagged edges. This can occur due to the absence of cleavage planes or the presence of multiple directions of weakness in the mineral's structure.Rate this question:
- 31.
What color streak does this mineral have? (white, black, yellow or colorless)
Correct Answer
blackExplanation
The mineral in question has a black streak. This means that when the mineral is scratched against a porcelain plate, it leaves behind a black mark. The color of the streak can sometimes be different from the actual color of the mineral, so even if the mineral itself may appear to be a different color, the streak is what determines its true color.Rate this question:
- 32.
Is this mineral's hardness greater or less than 5?
Correct Answer
greater than 5Explanation
The mineral's hardness is greater than 5, indicating that it is a relatively hard mineral. Minerals are classified on the Mohs scale of hardness, which ranges from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). A hardness greater than 5 suggests that the mineral is harder than common materials like glass and steel, but it does not provide specific information about the mineral's identity.Rate this question:
- 33.
Does this mineral cleave or fracture?
Correct Answer
fractureExplanation
Fracture refers to the way a mineral breaks when it is not along a cleavage plane. Instead of breaking along smooth, flat surfaces, a mineral that fractures will have irregular and rough surfaces. This can occur due to the absence of cleavage planes or the presence of structural weaknesses in the mineral's crystal lattice. Therefore, the given mineral does not have any specific cleavage and instead breaks with rough surfaces, indicating fracture.Rate this question:
- 34.
What type of luster does this mineral have metallic or nonmetallic?
Correct Answer
metallicExplanation
The mineral has a metallic luster because it reflects light in a way that is similar to metals. This means that it has a shiny, reflective surface, similar to the appearance of metals like gold or silver.Rate this question:
- 35.
Is this mineral's hardness greater or less than 5?
Correct Answer
greater than 5Explanation
The answer "greater than 5" suggests that the mineral in question has a hardness level that is higher than 5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. The Mohs scale measures the relative hardness of minerals based on their ability to scratch one another. A hardness level greater than 5 indicates that the mineral is relatively hard and can scratch minerals with a lower hardness level, such as gypsum or calcite.Rate this question:
- 36.
. What type of luster does this mineral have metallic or nonmetallic?
Correct Answer
nonmetallicExplanation
The given mineral is described as having a nonmetallic luster. Luster refers to the appearance of a mineral's surface in reflected light. Nonmetallic luster is characterized by a dull or earthy appearance, lacking the shine or reflectivity of metals. This suggests that the mineral does not contain any metallic elements and is likely composed of nonmetallic elements or compounds.Rate this question:
- 37.
. Does this mineral cleave or fracture?
Correct Answer
cleave - 38.
Is this mineral's hardness greater or less than 5?
Correct Answer
less than 5Explanation
The mineral's hardness is less than 5. This means that it is not very hard and can be easily scratched or damaged.Rate this question:
- 39.
What type of luster does this mineral have metallic or nonmetallic?
Correct Answer
nonmetallicExplanation
The mineral has a nonmetallic luster because it does not have the reflective shine typically associated with metals. Nonmetallic minerals have a variety of luster types, such as vitreous (glassy), pearly, silky, or dull.Rate this question:
- 40.
What color streak does this mineral have? (white, black, yellow or colorless) (white, black, yellow or colorless)(white, black, yellow or colorless)(white, black, yellow or colorless) ( (white( (white, black, yellow or colorless) (white, black, yellow or colorless
Correct Answer
whiteExplanation
The mineral has a white streak.Rate this question:
- 41.
What is a distinguishing property of this mineral when it is felt?
Correct Answer
greasyExplanation
The distinguishing property of this mineral when it is felt is that it feels greasy.Rate this question:
- 42.
Does this mineral cleave or fracture?
Correct Answer
fractureExplanation
This mineral fractures, which means it breaks irregularly and does not have a specific pattern of cleavage. When a mineral fractures, it forms rough and uneven surfaces.Rate this question:
- 43.
Does this mineral cleave or fracture?.
Correct Answer
cleave - 44.
What type of luster does this mineral have metallic or nonmetallic?
Correct Answer
metallicExplanation
The mineral in question has a metallic luster. This means that it reflects light in a way that is similar to metals, giving it a shiny and reflective appearance. Nonmetallic luster, on the other hand, refers to minerals that do not have a shiny or reflective appearance.Rate this question:
- 45.
What color streak does this mineral have? (white, black, yellow or colorless)
Correct Answer
blackExplanation
The mineral has a black streak.Rate this question:
- 46.
Does this mineral come in only one color?(yes or no)
Correct Answer
noExplanation
The mineral does not come in only one color.Rate this question:
- 47.
Is this mineral's hardness greater or less than 5?
Correct Answer
less than 5Explanation
The mineral's hardness is less than 5. This means that it is not a very hard mineral and can be easily scratched or damaged.Rate this question:
- 48.
Does this mineral cleave or fracture?
Correct Answer
cleave - 49.
Is this mineral's hardness greater or less than 5?
Correct Answer
less than 5Explanation
The mineral's hardness is less than 5, indicating that it is relatively soft compared to other minerals. This means that it can be easily scratched or damaged.Rate this question:
- 50.
How many directions does this mineral cleave? (1, 2 or 3)
Correct Answer
1Explanation
This mineral cleaves in only one direction. Cleavage in minerals refers to the tendency of a mineral to break along specific planes or directions, producing smooth, flat surfaces. In this case, the mineral can only cleave in one direction, indicating that it has a single plane of weakness along which it easily breaks.Rate this question:
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What type of luster does this mineral have metallic or nonmetallic?")
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Sep 27, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Sep 20, 2011Quiz Created by
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