Why Do Thin Sections Help Geologists Identify Minerals Better Than

Multiple Choice

Why do thin sections help geologists identify minerals better than with a hand specimen alone?

A) Thin sections allow the geologist to identify the chemicals within the minerals.
B) Each mineral transmits polarized light differently and displays variations in colors.
C) Looking at a thin section allows the geologist to see the atomic structure of the minerals.
D) Cutting a thin section removes the weathered surface and shows the minerals' true colors.