Hardness — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- Resistance to scratching under a stated comparative test. (Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems)
- A mineral's resistance to being scratched, ranked on the 1–10 Mohs scale. (Earth & Space Science)
Where it is taught
- Minerals: Properties, Patterns & Identification — Earth Systems, Plates & Earth Materials, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
- Minerals & Their Properties — Rocks, Landscapes & Water, Earth & Space Science, Grade 9
In use
That last requirement is the secret behind almost everything else about a mineral: because the atoms line up the same way all through it, they give each mineral its characteristic hardness, its shape, and the way it breaks.
Minerals & Their Properties
Questions using hardness
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
No. The scale ranks scratch resistance; its numbers do not represent equal linear steps or a simple doubling ratio.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
No. Brittleness or toughness and resistance to scratching are different properties. Use the stated scratch record without equating it with ease of breaking.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.
Problem 3
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
- Surface color alone always uniquely identifies a mineral.
- Hardness measures how difficult a sample is to break.
- hardness: Resistance to scratching under a stated comparative test.
Answer and explanation
hardness: Resistance to scratching under a stated comparative test.
Resistance to scratching under a stated comparative test. S matches R within the supplied three-candidate key. P differs in luster and Q in streak and scratch relation. The result combines defined properties rather than rely on surface color. It remains a match within this illustrative key, not a verified identification of an actual specimen or every possible mineral.
Problem 4
Answer and explanation
No. Brittleness or toughness and resistance to scratching are different properties. Use the stated scratch record without equating it with ease of breaking.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.