A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic solid. It possesses a definite chemical structure, which gives it a unique set of physical properties. When the term mineral is used by geologists, only those substances that fulfill these precise conditions are considered minerals. Consequently, synthetic diamonds, although chemically the same as natural diamonds, are not considered minerals. Frederick K. Lutgens, et al., Foundations of Earth Science, 6^th ed. A) Argument, conclusion: When the term mineral is used ... considered minerals. B) Argument, conclusion: A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic solid. C) Argument; conclusion: Synthetic diamonds ... are not considered minerals. D) Argument, conclusion: It possesses a definite chemical structure ... properties. E) Nonargument.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is C because it presents a clear argument structure: it starts with a premise about the definition of minerals and concludes that synthetic diamonds, despite being chemically identical to natural diamonds, do not meet this definition and thus are not considered minerals.

A Mineral Is a Naturally Occurring Inorganic Solid