Social Science — CBSE Class 10 board question

Minerals exist in varied forms with distinct properties because of the differences in physical and chemical conditions under which they are formed. This can be supported as follows:

1. Range of hardness: Minerals range from the hardest diamond to the softest talc, showing wide variation in physical properties.

1. Varied properties: Depending on the combination of elements and conditions of formation, minerals differ in colour, hardness, crystal form, lustre and density.

1. Occurrence in different rock types: Minerals form in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks through different processes — as veins/lodes, beds/layers, residual deposits, placer deposits, or dissolved in ocean water.

1. Different modes of formation: Some form by evaporation (gypsum), some by weathering/decomposition (bauxite), some by deposition under heat and pressure (coal), and some from molten material (copper, tin).

1. Over 2000 minerals have been identified, each with a definable internal structure, yet only a few are abundantly found in most rocks.

Source: Chapter 5 — Minerals and Energy Resources, "What is a Mineral?" and "Mode of Occurrence of Minerals"

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• The question asks you to support a statement, so structure your answer as clear points (5 points for 5 marks is ideal).
• Examiners look for: definition/variety, physical properties (colour, hardness, lustre, density), different rock types, different modes of formation, and the sheer number of minerals.
• Do not just list mineral names — link each point back to the idea of distinct properties or forms.
• Mentioning the range (diamond to talc) is a good opening hook directly from the textbook.