Streak — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- The color of a mineral’s powder under a defined observation method. (Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems)
- The color of a mineral's powder, revealed by rubbing it across an unglazed porcelain plate; more reliable than color for identification. (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
A far more honest test is streak — the color of a mineral's powder, which you reveal by scraping it across a rough, unglazed porcelain tile.
Minerals & Their Properties
Questions using streak
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
It records a different defined property that may remain more informative despite surface variation.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.
Problem 2
- streak: The color of a mineral’s powder under a defined observation method.
- Surface color alone always uniquely identifies a mineral.
- Hardness measures how difficult a sample is to break.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
streak: The color of a mineral’s powder under a defined observation method.
The color of a mineral’s powder under a defined observation method. 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 3
Hints
State what the supplied observations or conditions establish, and separate that from any assumption.
Answer and explanation
Weathering products can have different properties from the fresh mineral being identified.
Problem 4
- the colour of the mineral's powder
- the shine of the surface
- the shape of the crystal
- its density
Answer and explanation
the colour of the mineral's powder
Streak is often more reliable than surface colour because it does not vary with impurities.