The reason why minerals are so different from each other is a result of...density of the mineralThe internal arrangement of their atomshardness of the mineral

The reason why minerals are so different from each other is primarily due to the internal arrangement of their atoms. Each mineral has a unique atomic structure that determines its specific physical and chemical properties, including its density and hardness.

Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Atoms and Elements: Minerals are composed of atoms, which are the smallest units of matter. Each atom has a specific number of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Different types of atoms (elements) have different numbers of these particles.

2. Atomic Structure: The way these atoms are arranged in a mineral determines its structure. For example, in quartz (a common mineral), one silicon atom is surrounded by four oxygen atoms in a three-dimensional network. This arrangement is different from that of other minerals, leading to different properties.

3. Physical Properties: The atomic structure of a mineral determines its physical properties, such as hardness and density. Hardness is the resistance of a mineral to being scratched, while density is the mass of a mineral per unit volume. For example, diamond, the hardest known mineral, has a very rigid atomic structure that makes it resistant to scratching.

4. Chemical Properties: The atomic structure also determines the chemical properties of a mineral, such as its reactivity with other substances. For example, some minerals react with acid, while others do not.

In conclusion, the differences between minerals are a result of the differences in their atomic structures, which determine their physical and chemical properties.