A geologist working in a national park finds a mineral. He is carrying a kit that contains a penny, a hard lens , a piece of tile a geologic hammer, and a jackknife. Describe how the geologist can use these items to determine some of the minerals characteristics
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The geologist can use the kit items in different ways to determine some of the mineral's characteristics. Here's how each item can be helpful:
1. Penny: The geologist can scratch the mineral's surface with the penny. By observing the marks left on both the mineral and the penny, they can determine the mineral's hardness. If the mineral scratches the penny, it is harder than the penny. However, if the penny scratches the mineral, it is softer.
2. Hard lens: The geologist can use the hard lens to examine the mineral's crystal structure or other microscopic details. By placing the lens close to the mineral, they can observe its color, shape, cleavage (how the mineral breaks), and other small-scale features that contribute to mineral identification.
3. Piece of tile: The geologist can use the tile as a surface to test the mineral's streak. By rubbing the mineral against the tile, it will leave a streak of powdered mineral. The color of this streak can differ from the mineral's surface color and can provide additional clues about identification.
4. Geologic hammer: The geologist can use the geologic hammer to determine the mineral's physical properties, such as its hardness, fracture, and density. By striking the mineral lightly with the hammer, the geologist can listen for the sound it produces. Different minerals produce different sounds when struck, which can aid in identification.
5. Jackknife: While not directly used for mineral identification, the jackknife can be handy for performing tests that require a sharp edge or for obtaining small samples for further analysis.
Combining the observations made using these kit items, the geologist can begin to determine the mineral's characteristics such as hardness, color, streak, crystal structure, cleavage, fracture, and density. Further analysis and comparison with known minerals may be required for a more precise identification.