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earth science mineral terms
mineral terms
12
Geology
6th Grade
08/20/2013

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Term
Mineral
Definition
naturally occurring inorganic solid that a definite chemical composition and an orderly internal atomic structure
Term
Crystal
Definition
solid in which the atoms are arranged in an orderly, repeating pattern
Term
Magma
Definition
hot, melted rock beneath Earth’s surface
Term
Silicate
Definition
describes a mineral that contains silicon and oxygen and usually one or more elements
Term
Hardness
Definition
– measure of how easily a mineral can be scratched
Term
Luster
Definition
describes a way a mineral reflects light from its surface; can be metallic or nonmetallic
Term
Specific gravity
Definition
ratio of mineral’s weight compared with the weight of an equal volume of water
Term
Streak
Definition
color of a mineral when it is in powdered form
Term
Cleavage
Definition
physical property of some minerals that causes them to break along smooth, flat surfaces
Term
Fracture
Definition
physical property of some minerals that causes them to break with uneven, rough, or jagged surfaces
Term
Ore
Definition
deposit in which a mineral exists in large enough amounts to be mined at a profit
Term
Gem
Definition
beautiful, rare, highly prized mineral that can be worn in jewelry
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