A geologist finds a yellow mineral. To determine if it is gold, she compares several of its properties to the known properties of gold. This process works because...

all yellow minerals are types of gold.

gold has a unique set of characteristic properties.

the size of the mineral is its most important property.

properties like color are enough for a final identification.

Which statement best defines a characteristic property of a substance?

A trait that can only be observed during a chemical reaction.

A physical feature, like its mass or volume, that is easy to measure.

A unique trait that remains constant regardless of the amount or size of the substance.

A property that changes depending on the temperature and pressure of the environment.

Pouring the liquid into a larger beaker to see if its color changes.

Measuring the total volume of the liquid in a graduated cylinder.

Measuring its mass and volume to calculate its density and comparing it to known values.

Observing the shape the liquid takes when poured onto a flat surface.