Question

The strong tendency of certain minerals to break along smooth, parallel planes is known as________.

Answer 1

Answer:

Cleavage

Explanation:

    Cleavage is the ability of minerals to break along preferential crystallographic directions with the formation of a glossy surface. In the characterization of minerals the cleavages are described as:

• perfect cleavage: the crystal separates into perfect surface plates (ex: micas)

• good cleavage: separation occurs in certain directions, often forming stepped surfaces (eg calcite, kyanite)

• distinct cleavage: when the formation of equal and unequal surfaces due to breaking occurs (ex: feldspars, hornblende)

• imperfect cleavage: cleavage surfaces are uneven (eg, beryl)

• missing cleavage: no cleavage plan (ex: quartz)

Answer 2

Answer: Cleavage

Cleavage refers to the propensity of crystalline minerals to split into one or more directions or planes when hit.

In other words:

It is the breaking of the crystals of minerals along its structural weakness planes due to external stresses. Being a good example of this the diamond.

Therefore:

The strong tendency of certain minerals to break in smooth and parallel planes is known as cleavage.