Several countries of Africa and few of south America and Asia have ove...
Several countries of Africa, few of South America and Asia extracts an immense wealth of minerals, of which its mineral fuels— coal, petroleum, and natural gas—are of greatest value. These areas are rich in minerals.
Several countries of Africa and few of south America and Asia have ove...
The correct answer is option 'C': minerals. Several countries in Africa, South America, and Asia have over fifty per cent of their earnings from minerals alone. This refers to the revenue generated from the extraction, processing, and export of various mineral resources found within these countries.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Importance of Minerals in National Economies:
Minerals play a crucial role in the economies of many countries around the world. They are essential for industrial development, infrastructure construction, and manufacturing processes. Countries rich in mineral resources have the opportunity to generate significant revenue from their extraction and export.
2. African Countries:
Many African nations are known for their abundant mineral resources, which contribute significantly to their economies. For example:
- South Africa: The country is rich in minerals such as gold, platinum, diamonds, and coal, which have historically been major sources of revenue.
- Democratic Republic of Congo: This country is one of the world's largest producers of cobalt, copper, and diamonds.
- Nigeria: The country is known for its vast oil reserves, which account for a substantial portion of its earnings.
3. South American Countries:
Similarly, several South American countries have a substantial portion of their earnings coming from minerals. For instance:
- Chile: The country is the world's largest producer of copper, which contributes significantly to its economy.
- Brazil: It is rich in minerals such as iron ore, bauxite, and gold, which are major sources of revenue.
- Peru: The country is a significant producer of copper, zinc, silver, and gold.
4. Asian Countries:
Certain Asian countries also rely heavily on mineral earnings:
- Australia: The country is one of the world's largest exporters of coal, iron ore, and gold, contributing significantly to its economy.
- Indonesia: It is a leading producer of coal, tin, and nickel, which contribute substantially to its earnings.
- Kazakhstan: The country has vast reserves of minerals like copper, uranium, and zinc, with mining being a significant economic activity.
In conclusion, minerals contribute significantly to the earnings of several countries in Africa, South America, and Asia. The extraction and export of minerals provide these nations with a substantial source of revenue, which is crucial for their economic development and growth.