Introduction
Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids that have a definite chemical composition and crystal structure. They are essential components of rocks and are also important sources of many metals. The question of which of the following is not a mineral is one that has been debated for centuries. In this article, we will explore why certain substances cannot be classified as minerals and provide examples of common items that are not minerals.
Comparing Minerals and Non-Minerals
The first step in determining which of the following is not a mineral is to understand why certain substances cannot be classified as minerals. According to the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), minerals are solid substances that form in nature and have a definite chemical composition and crystal structure. This definition excludes many substances, including elements, compounds, and rocks, which do not meet these criteria.
For example, elements such as oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon are not considered minerals because they lack a definite crystal structure. Compounds such as water, ammonia, and table salt are also not considered minerals because their chemical composition can vary depending on the environment. Similarly, rocks such as granite, basalt, and limestone are not considered minerals because they are composed of numerous different minerals.
In addition, there are many everyday items that are not minerals. For example, ice, glass, plastic, wood, and rubber are all substances that are not minerals. These substances may contain minerals, but they are not themselves composed of minerals.
Differentiating Between Rocks and Minerals
It is also important to differentiate between rocks and minerals. While rocks are composed of multiple minerals, minerals are single elements or compounds. Rocks are formed when minerals are combined together in a process called lithification. The resulting rock will exhibit the properties of its constituent minerals, but it is not itself a mineral.
The distinguishing characteristics of minerals include crystalline structures, luster, hardness, streak, cleavage, and specific gravity. Crystalline structures refer to the arrangement of atoms in the mineral’s internal structure. Luster refers to the way light reflects off of the surface of the mineral. Hardness refers to the mineral’s resistance to scratching. Streak refers to the color of the mineral when it is powdered. Cleavage refers to the way in which a mineral breaks when struck. Specific gravity is the ratio of the mineral’s density compared to the density of water.
Examining Properties of Elements and Compounds
Elements and compounds are substances that are composed of atoms, molecules, or ions. These substances may contain minerals, but they are not themselves minerals. Elements and compounds have unique properties that differentiate them from minerals. For instance, elements and compounds are capable of combining with other elements and compounds, whereas minerals are not. Additionally, elements and compounds can exist in various forms, such as liquids, gases, and solids, whereas minerals only exist in solid form.
Furthermore, elements and compounds can change their physical and chemical properties when subjected to external forces, whereas minerals remain unchanged. For example, when water is heated, it changes from a liquid to a gas, whereas quartz remains unchanged when heated. This shows that elements and compounds have distinct properties that make them different from minerals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids that have a definite chemical composition and crystal structure. Many substances, including elements, compounds, and rocks, cannot be classified as minerals because they do not meet these criteria. Additionally, there are many everyday items, such as ice, glass, plastic, wood, and rubber, that are not minerals. Finally, elements and compounds have unique properties that differentiate them from minerals. By understanding the differences between minerals and other substances, it is possible to determine which of the following is not a mineral.
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