145k views
1 vote
Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solids that have crystal structures and definite chemical compositions.

Option 1: True
Option 2: False

User Gulbrandr
by
8.1k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

The statement is true; minerals are defined as naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a crystal structure and a definite chemical composition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement saying that minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solids that have crystal structures and definite chemical compositions is true. The term 'mineral' is specific to compounds that meet these criteria. Minerals are indeed naturally occurring, which excludes any synthetically created substances. They are inorganic, meaning they are not composed of complex carbon molecules that are characteristic of life. They must also be in a solid state, so while water is not a mineral, ice is, provided it has not been man-made. Minerals have a definite chemical composition; for example, halite is composed of NaCl. They can sometimes have a range in compositions, like olivine which has the formula (Mg,Fe)2SiO4, where magnesium and iron content can substitute for each other due to similar size and charge. The distinct crystal structure of a mineral reflects the orderly arrangement of atoms within it and is an outward manifestation of the internal atomic structure. Minerals are crucial for their various applications and are the fundamental building blocks of rocks.

User Pzin
by
8.5k points