Questions: The mineral below is bright yellow, with a greasy feel and conchoidal fracture. It has a nonmetallic luster and is softer than a penny. What is the name of this mineral?
Graphite
Hematite
Sulfur
Pyrite
Transcript text: The mineral below is bright yellow, with a greasy feel and conchoidal fracture. It has a nonmetallic luster and is softer than a penny. What is the name of this mineral?
Graphite
Hematite
Sulfur
Pyrite
Solution
The answer is the third one (C): Sulfur.
Explanation for each option:
Graphite: Graphite is typically gray to black in color and has a metallic to sub-metallic luster. It is also known for its greasy feel, but it is not bright yellow, which makes this option incorrect.
Hematite: Hematite is usually reddish-brown to black and has a metallic to earthy luster. It does not have a greasy feel or a bright yellow color, so this option is incorrect.
Sulfur: Sulfur is known for its bright yellow color and greasy feel. It has a nonmetallic luster and is softer than a penny, which fits the description given in the question. Therefore, this is the correct answer.
Pyrite: Pyrite, also known as "fool's gold," is metallic and has a brassy yellow color, but it is much harder than a penny and does not have a greasy feel. This makes this option incorrect.
In summary, the mineral described in the question is Sulfur, based on its bright yellow color, greasy feel, nonmetallic luster, and softness.