Minerals consist of an ordered array of atoms or ions that are _________.
A) always packed together in cubes or octahedra
B) physically attached to each other by shared protons
C) all the same size and charge
D) chemically bonded in a regular crystalline structure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Minerals are defined by their chemical composition and their crystalline structure. The atoms or ions in a mineral are chemically bonded in a regular, repeating pattern that extends in all three spatial dimensions, forming a crystalline structure. This structure is what gives minerals their distinct physical properties. Choices A, B, and C are not accurate descriptions of how atoms or ions are arranged in minerals.

Minerals Consist of an Ordered Array of Atoms or Ions