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Crystal Properties Investigation

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Crystal Properties Investigation

Hemi, Rawiri and Isla are investigating crystals found in rock samples near a fishing harbour. Use the observation results below to compare the samples. Look closely at the evidence, then answer each question. Never taste a sample or scratch an unknown mineral; real tests should be done with an adult.

The investigation results

The crew observed three safe, classroom mineral samples. Their hardness results are already recorded: “scratched” means the test object left a mark on the sample. Transparency describes how much light passes through.

Sample

Colour

Transparency

Hardness test result

Clear

Transparent

A fingernail did not scratch it; a steel nail did.

Purple

Translucent

A fingernail scratched it.

Pale green

Opaque

A fingernail did not scratch it; a steel nail did.

1.Which sample lets the most light pass through it?

Sample A
Sample B
Sample C

2.True or false: Sample C is transparent because it is pale green.

TrueFalse

3.Complete the sentence: A material that lets some light through but does not let you see clearly through it is called .

4.Match each sample to its colour using the observation chart.

Sample A
Sample B
Sample C

Pale green
Clear
Purple

5.Which sample is soft enough to be scratched by a fingernail?

6.Samples A and C had the same result in the hardness test. What does the chart show about how each compares with a fingernail and a steel nail?

7.Hemi says, “The purple sample must be the hardest because it has the brightest colour.” Is this claim supported by the chart? Explain using the test results.

8.Rawiri wants to compare the crystals fairly. Name one thing the crew should keep the same when testing each sample.

9.Isla notices a crystal looks clear. Can she be certain it is made of one particular mineral just from that observation? Explain.

Choose one sample from the chart. Draw a crystal shape you think it could have, then label it with its sample letter and one property from the chart.

10.A new sample is opaque and cannot be scratched by a fingernail. Write one observation and one test result you could record about it.