Which mineral below is the Hardest mineral on Earth? A. Talc B. Quartz C. Diamond D. Orthoclase
C. Diamond
The hardest mineral on Earth is C. Diamond.
To determine which mineral is the hardest, we use a scale called the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. The Mohs scale ranks minerals based on their ability to scratch other minerals. The higher a mineral is on the scale, the harder it is.
To find the hardest mineral on Earth, we compare the hardness of the minerals listed: Talc, Quartz, Diamond, and Orthoclase.
First, we need to understand the Mohs scale. Talc is the softest mineral and is given a hardness rating of 1. Quartz is harder and has a hardness rating of 7. Diamond is even harder and tops the scale with a hardness rating of 10. Orthoclase is a feldspar mineral and has a hardness rating of 6.
Since Diamond has the highest hardness rating of 10, it is the hardest mineral on Earth, making option C the correct answer.