Which of the following best defines a mineral and a rock?
A)A rock consists of atoms bonded in a regular, geometrically predictable arrangement; a mineral is a consolidated aggregate of different rock particles.
B)In a mineral the constituent atoms are bonded in a regular, repetitive, internal structure; a rock is a lithified or consolidated aggregate of different mineral grains.
C)A rock has an orderly, repetitive, geometrical, internal arrangement of minerals; a mineral is a lithified or consolidated aggregate of rocks.
D)A mineral consists of its constituent atoms arranged in a geometrically repetitive structure; in a rock, the atoms are randomly bonded without any geometric pattern.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A mineral is defined as a naturally occurring, inorganic substance that has a crystalline structure with a consistent chemical composition. In contrast, a rock is an aggregate of different minerals, either consolidated or lithified. Therefore, option B best defines a mineral as a substance with a regular, repetitive internal structure made up of atoms bonded together, and a rock as a lithified or consolidated aggregate of different mineral grains.

Which of the Following Best Defines a Mineral and a Rock