Identify the five criteria used to define a mineral. The Five Criteria Used to Define a Mineral

These are the Five Key Criteria to Define Minerals

Minerals are inorganic, naturally occurring solids. Each mineral has a distinct chemical composition and particular physical properties. According to the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) there are five criteria used to define a mineral: chemical composition, crystal structure, physical properties, occurrence, and classification (Hurlbut & Kammerling, 2019). This is the main criterion that is used to classify minerals. Minerals consist of molecules and atoms, which some minerals need to be identified. The common elements that are found in minerals include iron, magnesium, oxygen, titanium, aluminum and iron (Griess 2020). Crystal structure refers to the arrangement of minerals’ atoms. It is shown in three dimensions. This structure, which can be seen in the form of a crystal, determines the physical properties of the mineral, such as hardness and cleavage (Hurlbut & Kammerling, 2019). These properties can be measured and observed without the use of a microscope. Some examples include streak, color, hardness, cleavage and luster. Because most minerals are unique, these properties may help you identify them. Cont…