Question

ms-ess2-1 develop a model to describe the cycling of earths materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
this content is unavailable when printing.
2 minerals

1. which statement best identifies the substance whose characteristics are listed in the table?

characteristic observation
naturally occurring yes
can form by inorganic processes no
solid yes
crystal structure no
definite chemical composition no
a. it is not a mineral because it is a solid.
b. it is a mineral because it occurs naturally.
c. it is not a mineral because it doesnt have a crystal structure.
d. it is a mineral because it forms only organically.

1. what causes the crystals in gneiss to line up in bands?

a. deposition
b. erosion
c. pressure
d. weathering

Explanation:

For Question 6:

A mineral must meet 5 criteria: naturally occurring, inorganic origin, solid state, ordered crystal structure, and definite chemical composition. The substance fails multiple criteria, and option C correctly identifies that lacking a crystal structure (a required mineral trait) means it is not a mineral. Other options are wrong: A incorrectly claims being solid disqualifies it; B ignores missing required mineral traits; D incorrectly states organic formation makes it a mineral (minerals are inorganic).

For Question 7:

Gneiss is a metamorphic rock. Metamorphic rocks form under heat and pressure. The banding (foliation) in gneiss occurs because pressure forces mineral crystals to align in parallel bands. Deposition, erosion, and weathering are processes related to sedimentary rocks, not metamorphic foliation.

Answer:

1. C. It is not a mineral because it doesn't have a crystal structure.
2. C. pressure