The GATE Grind

GATE 2026 MN – Question 14

Mining Geology, Mine Development and Surveying · Mining Geology · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Which decreasing Mohs-hardness order is correct?

  1. Topaz > Quartz > Calcite > Talc
  2. Quartz > Topaz > Calcite > Talc
  3. Quartz > Topaz > Talc > Calcite
  4. Topaz > Calcite > Quartz > Talc

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Correct answer: (A) Topaz > Quartz > Calcite > Talc

Explanation

The reference Mohs values are topaz8, quartz7, calcite3 and talc1. Sorting those values from hardest to softest yields topaz, quartz, calcite, talc. Therefore A; the scale expresses relative scratch resistance.

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