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A mineral, by definition is an inorganic solid with a crystalline structure formed naturally. Wood, paper, or any other organic solids are not minerals because they have no crystalline structure and form organically. Plastic is not a mineral either because it is made synthetically out of organic materials. Some organic materials like coal and other hydrocarbons are considered minerals economically. Bones and teeth contain hydoxylapatite that is organically formed but is still considered a mineral, so there are exceptions. Whewellite is organically formed but has a crystalline structure, and is considered a mineral.

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16y ago

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