Using the Mohs standard hardness scale, which of the following scratch tests is correct? Scale Mineral 10 diamond 9 corundum 8 topaz 7 quartz 6 feldspar 5 apatite 4 fluorite 3 calcite 2 gypsum 1 talc Talc scratches calcite. Quartz scratches corundum. Fluorite scratches feldspar. Topaz scratches quartz.

The correct answer is : 'Topaz scratches quartz'.

Explanation:

Mohs scale is a qualitative scale to analyse and characterize scratch resistance of minerals. Harder mineral will easily scratch softer mineral.

Lower value on the scale indicates that mineral can be easily scratched by the another mineral with higher scale value. In other words calcite with scale value of 3 can easily scratch gypsum and talc with scale value of 2 and 1 respectively.

So, from the given options the correct test is that topaz scratches quartz.

Topaz scratches quartz