Solid geometric form that results from a repeating pattern of atoms and molecules; grow atom by atom to form a particular structure - these structures are grouped into six categories based on the number and angle of the crystal faces
Thin solid outermost layer of Earth above the mantle
The process by which material is laid down or deposited
A rock that forms from other rocks because of intense heat, pressure or chemical processes
The rising regions of Earth's crust to higher elevations
Ranks 10 minerals from softest to hardest; measure of mineral's hardness
Naturally occurring, inorganic solid that has a definite crystal structure and chemical composition
Supercontinent that formed 300 million years ago and that began to break up 200 million years ago
Minerals that do not contain silicate. these minerals can contain carbon, oxygen, fluorine,iron, sulfur
A rock that forms from compressed or cemented layers of sediment
Strong, lower part of the mantle between the asthenosphere and the outer core
Tendency of a mineral to split along it's surface 0 breaks easily along flat surface forming smooth, flat surfaces
Sinking of regions of the earth's crust to higher elevations
Process by which wind, water, ice or gravity transports soil and sediment from one location to another
Substance not made up of living things or remains of living things; like clam shells
Used to identify minerals - some but not all minerals have their own characteristic color
Solid, plastic layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere; made of mantle rock that flows very slowly, which allows tectonic plates to move on top of it