Minerals are primarily classified into which two categories?

Metallic and non-metallic minerals.

Fill in the blank: Minerals form through natural processes such as ___ and ___.

Evaporation of water and volcanic activity.

True or False: Ores are exclusively composed of a single type of mineral.

False. Ores can be composed of multiple minerals containing valuable components.

Which country is the largest producer of gold?

South Africa.

Riddle: I am found in the Earth, often in veins or deposits, I can be precious or common, what am I?

A mineral.

What are ferrous minerals, and provide two examples?

Ferrous minerals contain iron. Examples include iron ore and manganese.

Fill in the blank: The process of extracting minerals from the Earth is known as ___.

Mining.

What is the primary use of gypsum in medical applications?

Gypsum is used in plaster casts for fractures.

Describe the environmental impact of mining.

Mining has significant environmental impacts.

• Causes deforestation and habitat loss.

• Releases toxic minerals into ecosystems.

• Alters river flows and biodiversity.

Which mineral is primarily used in electrical cables due to its excellent conductivity?

Copper

True or False: Non-metallic minerals can be used to produce new products when melted.

False. Non-metallic minerals cannot produce new products when melted.

What is the significance of bauxite in the context of mineral resources?

Bauxite is the primary ore of aluminium, making it crucial for aluminium production.

What are the primary processes through which minerals are formed?

Minerals form through various processes.

• Evaporation of water creates minerals.

• Cooling magma forms igneous minerals.

• Biological activity produces minerals.