What kind of structure does a mineral typically have?

A mineral typically has a crystalline structure, which is characterized by a highly ordered arrangement of atoms. This orderly pattern of atoms forms a repeating geometric structure, which defines the mineral's unique properties, including its physical characteristics and how it interacts with light. The crystalline structure contributes to various forms that minerals can take, such as cubes, prisms, or hexagonal shapes, depending on how the atoms are arranged.

In contrast, a random structure would lack any kind of regular arrangement and would not fit the definition of a mineral. An amorphous structure, while it also lacks a regular arrangement of atoms, is typically associated with substances like glass rather than minerals. Finally, a fluid structure does not apply to minerals, as they are solid substances. The presence of a crystalline structure is essential for classifying a substance as a mineral and plays a significant role in identifying and studying different mineral types.