Which of the following does not describe a mineral?
A) a fundamental form of matter that cannot be broken into simpler substances by ordinary chemical processes
B) the building blocks of rocks
C) a naturally occurring inorganic solid with a characteristic chemical composition and a crystalline structure
D) natural gems

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A mineral is defined by several criteria, including being a naturally occurring, inorganic solid with a characteristic chemical composition and a crystalline structure. A fundamental form of matter that cannot be broken into simpler substances by ordinary chemical processes describes an element, not a mineral. Minerals can indeed be the building blocks of rocks and include natural gems, making options B, C, and D incorrect for this question.

Which of the Following Does Not Describe a Mineral