Minerals vs. RocksWhat are Minerals?A mineral, by definition, must meet four criteria. It must be a naturally occurring, solid substance that has an internal crystal structure and is formed by inorganic processes. Rocks are made up of minerals.groundwateroceanshorelinemountainslakemagmaventsMinerals form in a wide variety of geologic environments. Some minerals, such as talc, form as a result of intense heat and pressure created during metamorphism. Ground water that is heated by magma causes elements and compounds to dissolve into a hot liquid. When the liquid cools, minerals such as gold and copper are formed.One group of minerals forms when ocean water evaporates. The most common mineral to form this way is halite (rock salt). halitequartztalcgoldWhat are Rocks?Rocks are solid, naturally occurring substances composed of one or more minerals and other matter, including inorganic material. Rocks are classified into three groups according to how they were formed.Igneous rocks form when liquid rock cools and hardens. Liquid rock that is under the crust is called magma. When it pours out onto the Earth's surface, it is then called lava. Metamorphic rocks are rocks that have changed as the result of intense heat and pressure deep in the Earth's crust. Sedimentary rocks are rocks that have been placed in layers by weathering or erosion. Over millions of years, these layers are compressed and cemented together.© Copyright NewPath Learning. All Rights Reserved. 94-4652Visit www.newpathlearning.com for Online Learning Resources.
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