Question

joy saw small crystals shining in the sunlight on the surface of a mountain slope. these were most likely
a minerals
b rocks
c sand
d soil

Explanation:

Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids with a definite chemical composition and a crystalline structure, which causes them to reflect light (shine) in sunlight. Rocks are aggregates of minerals, sand is small rock/mineral particles, and soil is a mixture of organic matter, minerals, etc.—none of these have the distinct crystalline, light-reflecting nature of individual minerals as described.

Answer:

A. minerals