88.8k views
0 votes
Classify as mineral or not mineral. If not mineral, give reason: Ice

User Chee
by
8.7k points

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

Ice, when naturally occurring, such as in glaciers, is classified as a mineral since it is an inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition (H2O) and a characteristic crystalline structure. Man-made ice is not considered a mineral as it is not naturally occurring.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ice is classified as a mineral when it is naturally occurring. As per the definition, a mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic, solid substance with a definite chemical composition and a characteristic crystalline structure. Ice meets these criteria when it forms naturally, as in glaciers or ice caps.

It has a definite chemical composition, H2O, and a crystalline structure that becomes evident when it freezes. It is also inorganic, meaning it does not consist of the complex carbon-based molecules that characterize life.

However, ice that is man-made, such as the kind produced by refrigerators or ice machines, does not qualify as a mineral because it is not naturally occurring. Additionally, ice must be in a solid form to be considered a mineral; therefore, water in its liquid state does not meet the criteria.

User Lincolnfrias
by
8.3k points

No related questions found

Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.

9.4m questions

12.2m answers

Categories