Rocks - Science Term 3

Define Rocks.

Rocks are solid masses made up (comprised) of a combination of minerals and matter. By definition, a rock is something that is naturally made, usually through processes in the earth such as compaction, heat, or lava.

What are the 5 major characteristics of minerals?

1. Inorganic (not based on carbon)

2. Crystalline Structure

3. Solid

4. Occurs Naturally

5. Is entirely made up of only one single chemical compound

Is quartz a mineral? (By observing the 5 major characteristics)

1. It is inorganic (no carbon)

2. It has a crystal structure

3. It is a solid

4. It naturally occurs in all types of rocks (found almost everywhere on Earth)

5. It is made up of the chemical compound silicon dioxide or SiO squared

   Therefore, quartz is a mineral.

What are the layers of the Earth?

Crust, Mantle, and Core (Outer and Inner Core)