Mineral grains vary in size from submicroscopic to several centimeters. Distinguishing properties may be tough to identify even with a hand lens. Slightly weathered specimens of a mineral may have a lower hardness than that of a fresh specimen, or contain other elements diluting the effect of acid on the mineral. The correct identification of a rock or mineral is not the goal of the Earth Materials activities for elementary students. Mock Rocks Rocks can be taken apart into their components.
Rocks exhibit a variety of properties, including shape, size,texture, and color.
Settling or layering of materials in water can be used to separate Earth materials. Crystals form from the evaporation of a saltwater mixture. Rocks are composed of Earth materials called minerals that cannot be physically broken apart any further. Calcite Quest Calcite is a mineral that fizzes when placed in acid. Minerals have different properties.