Question

Which is hardest on Mohs scale? A) talc B) quartz C) diamond D) feldspar

Short answer

The hardest mineral on the Mohs scale is diamond.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Mohs Scale

The Mohs scale is used to determine the hardness of minerals. It ranks minerals on a scale from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). Knowing which minerals rank where on this scale is essential for this task.

List the Hardness of Each Mineral

Identify the hardness of each mineral provided in the options: A) Talc has a Mohs hardness of 1. B) Quartz has a Mohs hardness of 7. C) Diamond has a Mohs hardness of 10. D) Feldspar has a Mohs hardness of approximately 6 to 6.5.

Compare the Hardness

Compare the hardness of each of the minerals listed: 1 (Talc), 6-6.5 (Feldspar), 7 (Quartz), and 10 (Diamond). Determine which has the highest value.

Identify the Hardest Mineral

The hardest mineral according to the Mohs scale from the options is Diamond, with a hardness rating of 10.

Key concepts

Mineral Hardness

Mineral hardness is a key feature that helps us understand the properties and applications of minerals. The Mohs scale of mineral hardness is a popular method used to measure how resistant a mineral is to scratching by another material.
This scale goes from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 the hardest. This ranking enables geologists and enthusiasts to identify and compare minerals effectively.

• The scale is not linear. It simply lists minerals in order of increasing hardness.
• Minerals close in number on the scale can often scratch each other.

Understanding mineral hardness is crucial for industrial applications, jewelry making, and geological studies.

Talc

Talc is the softest mineral on the Mohs scale, holding the position of 1. Its softness makes it an essential component in many everyday products.
This mineral is composed mainly of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, thus forming a dense, sheet-like structure that slides easily.

• Talc is used in the production of talcum powder, cosmetics, and even some food processing because of its softness and absorption properties.
• Ithas a slippery feel and can be easily scratched by any other mineral.

Despite its softness, talc plays a significant role in various applications due to its unique properties.

Quartz

Quartz ranks 7 on the Mohs scale, making it significantly harder than talc. It is one of the most common and varied minerals on the planet.
Quartz is composed of silicon and oxygen, forming a sturdy, interconnected crystal lattice that contributes to its hardness.

• Quartz is widely used in jewelry and watches because it is both beautiful and durable.
• Besides its hardness, it is also valued for its piezoelectric properties, where it generates an electric charge under mechanical stress, useful in electronics.

Quartz’s combination of hardness and versatility makes it an important material in numerous industries.

Diamond

Diamond, the hardest known natural material, ranks 10 on the Mohs scale. Its unmatched hardness makes it invaluable in both the gemstone industry and industrial applications.
Diamonds are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal structure that makes them not only hard but also wear-resistant.

• They are often used in cutting tools and abrasives because they can cut or polish any material.
• In jewelry, diamonds are highly valued for their clarity, brilliance, and rarity.

The unrivaled hardness of diamonds makes them a symbol of strength and durability.