Question

Consider the following statements about Minerals in general: Which of the statements above are correct?

1. There are at least 2000 minerals identified in the earth's crust.
2. Minerals must always be formed by the combination of two or more elements.
3. Minerals have a definite atomic structure and specific physical properties.

• A. i, iii
• B. ii, iii
• C. i only
• D. iii only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. i, iii

Minerals: Identification and Characteristics

Number of Identified Minerals

• Scientists have identified over 5,000 different types of minerals in the Earth's crust. The statement mentioning 'at least 2000' is an underestimate.

Mineral Formation

• Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a definite chemical composition and an ordered atomic arrangement.
• While many minerals are formed by the combination of two or more elements (e.g., quartz - SiO2), some minerals can consist of a single element. Examples include gold (Au), silver (Ag), and copper (Cu). Therefore, the statement that minerals must always be formed by the combination of two or more elements is incorrect.

Defining Characteristics of Minerals

• Minerals are characterized by their definite atomic structure, which refers to the ordered arrangement of atoms within the mineral.
• This ordered structure gives rise to specific physical properties that are unique to each mineral. These properties include hardness, color, luster, cleavage, fracture, density, and magnetic properties, which are used for mineral identification.

Relevance to Geography and Earth Science

• Understanding minerals is fundamental to the study of economic geology and resource management.
• The distribution of mineral deposits is a key factor in understanding the Earth's geological processes and influencing human settlement and economic activities.