Which of the following is an example of a mineral?
A) water
B) granite
C) coal
D) quartz
quartz
http://www.minerals.net/mineral/silicate/tecto/quartz/quartz.htm
D) quartz
To determine which of the given options is an example of a mineral, we need to understand the characteristics of minerals.
A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid substance that has a specific chemical composition and a characteristic crystalline structure. It is typically formed through geological processes over millions of years.
Now let's analyze each option:
A) Water: Water is a compound composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. While water is essential for life, it does not meet the criteria of being a mineral because it is not an inorganic solid substance and does not possess a crystalline structure.
B) Granite: Granite is an igneous rock composed mainly of minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. While granite contains minerals, it is not considered a mineral itself.
C) Coal: Coal is a sedimentary rock formed from the remains of plant material. While it is derived from organic matter and contains carbon, it is not considered a mineral.
D) Quartz: Quartz, on the other hand, is a mineral and fits all the criteria. It is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid substance, with a specific chemical composition (silicon dioxide) and a characteristic crystalline structure. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth.
Therefore, the correct answer is D) quartz.