Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Minerals and other Natural Science topics.

Why is the hardness of a mineral important?

Hardness I

The hardness is important because it is considered diagnostic - that is, you can use it to help identify the mineral. Moh's Scale of Hardness runs from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond), but here's a tip: use a glass plate to separate "soft" minerals from "hard" ones. If the mineral scratches the glass, call it hard. If it can't scratch the glass, consider it a soft mineral.

Comments

Nobody has commented on this tip yet. Be the first.

Ask a Question

Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Natural Science Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!

Guru Spotlight

Susan Sayour

Ever wonder how you could make your life better and more fun? So have tens of millions of fans who have turned to LifeTips for answers over the past decade. We keep the tips, advice, books, podcasts and writing services flowing, so you can keep your life and business growing in the right direction. Upward!