MINERALS

Answer the following:

Table 1.1 (Items inside your house)
ITEMS MINERAL PRESENT (1) MINERAL PRESENT (2)
1. Television Copper Iron
2. Toothpaste Calcium carbonate Fluoride
3. Mirror Feldspar Silver
4. Table salt Halite Sodium chloride
5. Battery Cobalt Nickel

1. What are the characteristics that define a mineral?

A mineral can be classified by its physical and chemical properties. Physical properties:
streak, luster, fracture/cleavage, hardness, color, & specific gravity. Chemical
properties: silicates, oxides, sulfides, carbonates, native elements and halides.
2. What is the difference between streak and color? Which is more reliable?
Streak is the color of the mineral’s powder which is scraped using a ceramic plate, while
color is the constant and predictable component of the mineral (can be observed by an
unaided eye). In my opinion, streak is more reliable when it comes to identifying a
mineral because streak does not vary and minerals that have the same color may have
a different colored streak.
3. Give at least two importance of minerals.
Minerals are important because it helps our body grow, develop, and stay healthy. It
also provides raw materials to basic human necessities, including shelter and tools. It
can also be used in building materials, cosmetics, cars and appliances.

The flowchart presents the classification of minerals. Write the following examples of
minerals in each classification that can be found inside the box below the chart.
 MINERALS

NON METALLIC ENERGY MINERAL

METALLIC
1. Limestone 1. Coal
2. Marble 2. Petroleum

FEROUS NON-FEROUS
1. Nickel 1. Copper
2. Cobalt 2. Lead