Question

why are physical properties such as hardness or cleavage useful to geologists when identify minerals?
a physical properties are determined by a minerals hardness, which are unique to each mineral.
b physical properties are determined by a minerals cleavage, which are unique to each mineral.
c physical properties are determined by a minerals bond strength, which are unique to each mineral.
d physical properties are unique to each mineral and are determined by the minerals chemical composition and atomic structure

Explanation:

Each mineral has a unique chemical makeup and atomic structure, which directly define its distinct physical properties like hardness and cleavage. These consistent, unique traits let geologists reliably tell minerals apart. Options A and B are wrong because they incorrectly link all physical properties only to hardness or cleavage, not the root cause. Option C is incorrect as bond strength is just one factor tied to the broader chemical and atomic structure.

Answer:

D. Physical properties are unique to each mineral and are determined by the mineral's chemical composition and atomic structure