Question

how do you think the hardness and density of a mineral that formed through metamorphism would compare to a mineral that formed through evaporation ?

Answer 1

The hardness and density of a mineral that formed through metamorphism is generally different from a mineral that formed through evaporation. Metamorphic rocks can have higher hardness and density due to recrystallization, while evaporite minerals tend to have lower hardness and density. Quartz is an example of a hard mineral found in metamorphic rocks, while halite is a softer mineral formed through evaporation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Metamorphic rocks that form through metamorphism will generally have different hardness and density compared to minerals that form through evaporation.

In metamorphic rocks, the heat and pressure cause minerals to recrystallize, creating a new rock with different mineral content and texture. This recrystallization process can result in a denser and harder rock. On the other hand, minerals that form through evaporation, such as halite (rock salt), tend to have lower densities and hardness due to their formation process.

For example, quartz is a common mineral found in metamorphic rocks and has a Mohs hardness of 7, meaning it is relatively hard. In contrast, halite has a Mohs hardness of only 2.5, indicating it is much softer.

Answer 2

Hardness of a mineral is defined as the resistance to breaking, and density is defined as the mass of a substance per unit volume.

The density and hardness of a mineral, that is formed from through metamorphism are relatively much harder because the metamorphic minerals are formed under extremely high temperature and pressure conditions. These are high-grade minerals.

On the other hand, the density and hardness of a mineral formed through evaporation are much weaker in nature, because these minerals are formed when the water is eliminated due to the high rate of evaporation.

So, it can be concluded that the density and hardness of as mineral formed through the metamorphic process is highly stronger and harder than those that are formed through evaporation.