Mohs scale of hardness

User Generated

fnzennw

Science

Description

Having trouble conceptualizing the ratings on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. I understand the ranking but the absolute hardness rating i'm having trouble with. Is it an logarithmic or linear scale? So is diamond literally 1600x harder than talc?

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Explanation & Answer

Hi Samraaj!

The absolute hardness rating on the Mohs scale is actually a purely linear scale. That rating is attained through the usage of a Sclerometer, which allows Geologists to measure scratch rating. The sclerometer gives a rating based on pressure, which scratches on a linear scale. 

So this means that Diamond is 1600 (rated 1600) times harder than Talc (rated 1). Also, Diamond (1600) is four times harder than Corundum (400). 

Good luck with everything else

-Samu


Anonymous
Just what I was looking for! Super helpful.

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