Welcome to CoreFacts, where we're always short on time and
big on science. I'm Steve Sobieszczyk. Today's question goes out to all you
geologists and geology teachers out there.
What's the difference between a rock and a mineral?
A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic compound with
a unique chemical structure and physical properties. A rock is a solid, stony
mass composed of a combination of minerals or other organic compounds. For
example, quartz and feldspars are minerals, but when formed together, they make
a rock, granite.
And now you know. Join us every weekday for a new CoreFact.
If you have a question you think we should answer on the air, email it to us at
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