Answer:
A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid substance with a definite chemical composition and a specific set of physical properties. A rock, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring solid substance composed of one or more minerals, or organic materials such as fossilized shells or bone.
Some key differences between minerals and rocks include:
Composition: Minerals are made up of a single chemical element or a combination of elements, whereas rocks can be made up of multiple minerals or other materials.
Formation: Minerals form through natural processes such as crystallization, whereas rocks can form through processes such as sedimentation, melting, or metamorphism.
Properties: Minerals have specific physical properties such as hardness, color, and density that can be used to identify them, whereas rocks may have a wide range of physical properties depending on their composition and formation.
Overall, the main difference between minerals and rocks is their composition and formation. Minerals are pure, inorganic substances with specific physical properties, while rocks are composed of multiple minerals or other materials and can have a wide range of physical properties.
Step-by-step explanation: