1. Naturally Occurring: Minerals must be formed by natural processes, not created in a lab.
2. Inorganic: They must not be derived from living organisms.
3. Solid: Minerals are solid at room temperature and pressure.
4. Crystalline Structure: Their atoms must be arranged in a specific, repeating pattern. This internal structure leads to characteristic shapes and properties.
5. Definite Chemical Composition: Minerals have a consistent chemical formula. While there might be some variations, the ratio of elements in a mineral is generally fixed.
Important Notes:
* Amorphous Solids: Materials like glass or obsidian are solid but lack a crystalline structure and thus are not considered minerals.
* Organic Compounds: Substances like coal and oil are derived from living organisms and are not minerals.
Let me know if you want examples of specific minerals!
