Difference Between a Rock and a Mineral — Passage and Quiz

Rocks and minerals are often confused, but they are fundamentally different. A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid with a specific chemical composition and crystal structure. In contrast, a rock is a solid mixture of one or more minerals or mineral-like substances.

For example, granite is a rock composed of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica. Rocks are classified into three main types based on how they form:

1. Igneous Rocks: Formed from cooled magma or lava (e.g., basalt, granite).
2. Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from compressed sediments (e.g., sandstone, limestone).

3. Metamorphic Rocks: Formed from existing rocks changed by heat and pressure (e.g., marble, slate).

    

While minerals have a uniform composition, rocks can vary widely in their mineral content and appearance. Understanding the difference between rocks and minerals is essential for studying Earth’s geology and resources.

Fun fact: The oldest rocks on Earth are over 4 billion years old!