Answer:
The correct answer is option 1, that is, gypsum.
Explanation:
One of the most basic tests for determining mineral specimens is the Mohs Hardness Test. This examination compares the resistance of a mineral to being scratched by 10 reference minerals called the Mohs Hardness Scale. This test makes hardness a trustworthy diagnostic characteristic for the majority of minerals.
On the basis of Mohs Hardness Scale, gypsum has a hardness of 2, Topaz has a hardness of 8, Quartz has a hardness of 7, and diamond exhibits the most hardness on the basis of the scale, that is, 10. Therefore, it is clear that gypsum on the basis of the hardness would be the most easily scratched.
