Which of the following is a characteristic of all minerals?
a. Contains silicon
b. Inorganic
c. Liquid
d. Man-made
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is b. Inorganic.
Explanation:
Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solids that have a definite chemical composition and an orderly internal structure. Let’s explore why inorganic is a characteristic of all minerals and why the other options are incorrect.
1. Inorganic (Correct Answer)
All minerals are inorganic, meaning they are not derived from living organisms. This distinguishes them from organic compounds like sugar or proteins. Minerals form through geological processes, such as crystallization from magma, precipitation from solutions, or changes in temperature and pressure. Examples of inorganic minerals include quartz, diamond, and halite.
2. Contains Silicon (Incorrect)
While many minerals contain silicon, especially silicate minerals (like quartz or feldspar), not all do. For instance, non-silicate minerals like calcite (calcium carbonate) and pyrite (iron sulfide) lack silicon. Thus, “contains silicon” is not a universal characteristic.
3. Liquid (Incorrect)
Minerals are defined as solids under normal Earth conditions. They must have a fixed shape and volume, unlike liquids. For example, water in its liquid form is not a mineral, but when it freezes into ice, it becomes a mineral because it meets the criteria.
4. Man-made (Incorrect)
Minerals are naturally occurring substances. This means they form without human intervention. Synthetic materials created in laboratories, even if they have the same composition and structure as natural minerals, are not considered minerals because they are not naturally formed.
Summary:
Inorganic nature is a fundamental characteristic of all minerals. They are not derived from biological activity, setting them apart from organic substances. While many minerals may contain silicon, be solid, and occur naturally, the defining quality across all minerals is their inorganic origin.