Answer:
Option (A)
Explanation:
The hardness of a mineral is defined as the ability to resist scratching. Weaker minerals easily get break down when scratching with a less hard mineral. Hard minerals are not easily scratchable.
In order to determine hardness, a scale was developed by Mohr, which is known as the Mohr's hardness scale. According to this scale, the hardness is measured on a scale from 1 to 10. They are given below in the increasing order-
Talc < Gypsum < Calcite < Fluorite < Apatite < Feldspar < Quartz < Topaz < Corundum < Diamond.
The least hard mineral is Talc and the strongest mineral is Diamond.
Thus, the correct answer is option (A).
