A cubic centimeter of quartz,olivine,and gold weighs 2.5,3.0,and 19.8 grams,respectively.This indicates that ________.
A)gold has a higher density and specific gravity than quartz and olivine
B)gold is 6 to 7 times harder than olivine and quartz
C)gold and olivine are silicates,whereas quartz is elemental silicon
D)olivine and quartz powders are harder than metallic gold

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Density is the mass per unit volume. Gold has a higher density than quartz and olivine as it weighs more than both of them in the same volume. Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substance (usually water). Gold also has a higher specific gravity than quartz and olivine, indicating that it has a higher density. Therefore, choice A is the best answer. Choice B is incorrect as hardness is a different property and not related to density. Choice C is incorrect as quartz is also a silicate mineral. Choice D is incorrect as the question does not provide information about the hardness of powders.

A Cubic Centimeter of Quartz,olivine,and Gold Weighs 2