Which of the following is a physical property of minerals?
Final answer: Portland cement does not qualify as a mineral since it is a man-made substance, while minerals occur naturally. The physical property of minerals indicated in the provided options is color.
Correct Statement About Portland Cement
Explanation:
Regarding the correct statement about Portland cement, the correct answer is C: Portland cement is not a mineral because minerals are not man-made. This is because minerals, by definition, are naturally occurring inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and ordered internal structure. Portland cement, on the other hand, is man-made from limestone and other materials, and therefore does not meet the criteria to be qualified as a mineral.
Physical Property of Minerals
Explanation:
As for the physical property of minerals question, the answer is A: color. Color is a physical property that is often used for mineral identification. Physical properties are attributes of minerals that can be observed or measured, such as color, crystal shape, hardness, luster, and streak. Chemical stability, while important in applications, is a chemical not a physical characteristic, whereas toxicity and combustion are not related to minerals.