to make a solution of, as by mixing with a liquid; pass into solution: to dissolve salt in water. to melt; liquefy: to dissolve sugar into syrup. to undo (a tie or bond); break up (a connection, union, etc.). to break up (an assembly or organization); dismiss; disperse.
The Mohs scale of mineral hardness is based on the ability of one natural sample of mineral to scratch another mineral visibly. The samples of matter used by Mohs are all different minerals. Minerals are pure substances found in nature. Rocks are made up of one or more minerals.
To answer this question, itâs important to first talk about the Mohs scale. The Mohs scale characterizes the range of hardness that different minerals contain. Specifically, it identifies scratch resistance of various minerals, through the ability of a harder material to scratch a softer material. The scale ranges from 1-10, 1 being the softest, and 10 being the hardest. To give you an idea, Diamonds are considered a 10, while Talc is considered a 1. Volcanic glass is right in the middle, with a 5. Where Does Soapstone Fall on the Scale? When put on the Mohs Scale, traditional soapstone is softer due to higher talc content. But even soapstone has a range. It could be a 2.5 on the Mohs scale, like Mariana and Barroca. Churchill, our most popular variety, sits at a 3. Or, it could be as high as a 5 on the scale, like Noir, Sabon, and PA. The hardness of soapstone can depend on its parent material, i.e., its makeup.