Final answer:
Quartz is an example of a mineral, which is a natural, inorganic solid with a chemical composition and crystalline structure. Minerals such as calcium and potassium are vital for bodily functions and are found in many everyday items. Granite is a rock composed of various minerals, including quartz.
Step-by-step explanation:
Quartz is an example of a mineral that is one of the most common and recognizable in the Earth's crust. Minerals are defined as naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a definitive chemical composition and a crystalline structure. For instance, quartz has the chemical formula SiO2 and is prevalent in many types of rocks, including granite, arkose sandstone, and gneiss. These rocks, despite containing the same minerals, can form in various ways due to different geological processes.
Minerals are not only key components of rocks but also essential to human biology. They are crucial for various body processes; for example, calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth, while potassium is needed for normal nerve and muscle function. Everyday items such as toothpaste, table salt, makeup, and technology like cellphones all contain minerals, demonstrating their ubiquitous presence in daily life.
Moreover, rocks like granite are composed of multiple minerals, including K-feldspar, quartz, plagioclase feldspar, and biotite, as seen in educational resources like Figure 2.1. These minerals contribute to the overall composition and characteristics of the rock, and they can be identified using tools and analyses in geological studies.