Naturally occurring, solid substances that have a crystalline structure and a defined chemical composition are called

a. rocks.

b. minerals.

c. sediments.

d. conglomerates.

The correct answer is B.

A mineral is defined as a naturally occurring substance that has a definite chemical composition and crystal structure.

In order for a substance to be called a mineral, it must have all the four characters described in the definition.

- a mineral is always a solid and has a definite shape and volume.

- most minerals are made of two or more elements chemically combined to form a compound. It may also be made of a single element e. g. gold, copper or sulphur.

- all minerals have a characteristic crystal structure.

- minerals are grouped according to their chemical composition or makeup