Download Rocks and Minerals

Rocks and Minerals
Earth Science
S3E1. Students will investigate the physical attributes of rocks and soils.
a. Explain the difference between a rock and a mineral.
b. Recognize the physical attributes of rocks and minerals using observation (shape, color, texture),
measurement, and simple tests (hardness).
c. Use observation to compare the similarities and differences of texture, particle size, and color in top soils
(such as clay, loam or potting soil, and sand).
d. Determine how water and wind can change rocks and soil over time using observation and research.
Rocks and Minerals
minerals: Pure , solid, and made from only one type of material. Inorganic
(non-living), naturally made from elements found in the Earth. They are
the building blocks of rocks.
rocks: are made of minerals. Typically, 2 or more minerals mixed together
make a rock. It takes thousands to millions of years for rocks to develop.
Types of Rock
igneous rock: Volcanoes erupt and the magma (melted rock) comes out
as lava. It cools and makes rock.
metamorphic rock: This is a rock that has changed form through heat and
pressure from under the crust of the Earth.
sedimentary rock: Soft, layered rocks formed by sediment (broken rocks
or minerals due to erosion and weathering) layers pressing
together and cement into solid rocks. They are pressed together
under water.
rock cycle: The rock cycle is made up of
these three types of rocks. They
can evolve into either of the two
other types of rock, or even into
other rocks of their own type.
Physical Properties
Trying to determine the type of rocks and minerals can be tricky. Scientists use
the following information to help find out types of rocks and minerals.
Color: Using the color may help determine the sample type. However, color is
not a reliable way to determine the type of mineral. Many minerals can
have more than one color or different shades of a color.
Transparency: Helps find out how much light shines through (clear, milky,
solid).
Luster: If light reflects off (metallic or nonmetallic)
Texture: Rough or smooth, crystals (glassy) , grains
Shape: Minerals are made with definite crystal structures
Scientific Tests
Hardness: Is tested by using common objects (fingernail, penny, nail).
MOHS (Measurement of Hardness Scale) rates
the hardness of a rock or mineral.
Streak: Streak test can be done on a non-coated ceramic tile. The mark is made
from the powder remains of the rock or mineral.
Magnetic: It the rock or mineral attracts a magnet, it is magnetic. Iron is a
magnetic mineral.
Acid Test: White vinegar (acid) can be poured on top of a sample. If it fizzes, it
has calcium in it.
Buoyancy: Determine if it sinks or floats in water. Most rocks will sink.
However, some igneous rocks will float due to the number of air spaces
from quickly hardening.