Final answer:
The indentation of a material by a harder object is translated into a hardness measurement using the Mohs' scale of mineral hardness, which offers relative values for different minerals. Higher hardness values indicate greater resistance to indentation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The indentation of a material by a harder object is translated into a hardness measurement through various methods, such as the Mohs' scale of mineral hardness. This scale uses a series of minerals to determine the relative hardness of different materials.
For example, if a material is indented by a mineral with a higher hardness value on the Mohs' scale, it means that the material is softer. Conversely, if a material is indented by a mineral with a lower hardness value, it means that the material is harder.
Therefore, hardness measurement is based on the concept of relative resistance to scratching or abrasion, where a higher hardness value indicates greater resistance to indentation.