Question

1. according to the table, which mineral is capable of scratching garnet? a. corundum b. gold c. pyrite d. apatite

Explanation:

Step1: Understand hardness concept

A mineral can scratch another if its hardness is higher.

Step2: Identify garnet hardness

Garnet has a hardness of 7.5 - 8.

Step3: Compare with other minerals

Corundum has a hardness of 9 which is higher than garnet's hardness range. Gold has hardness 2.5 - 3, pyrite 6 - 6.5 and apatite 5, all lower than garnet's range.

Answer:

a. Corundum