The study of Minerals is called mineralogy. A mineral is a naturally occurring substance that is solid and stable at room temperature. A minerals can be represented by a chemical formula and possess and ordered atomic strucrure. A mineral is an elements or chemical compound that is normally crystaline and that has formed as a result of geological processes.
The minerals are broadly catagorized into two types. They are
- Meatallic Minerals
- Nonmetalic Minerals
Metallic Minerals: The minerals from which metals can be extracted are catagorized a metalic minerals. The metalic minerals are the compounds of metals in different form. Some of the metalic minerals are also known as ores. An ore is a highly rich metalic minerals from which metal can be extracted.
NonMetalic Minerals: Nonmetalic minerals do not contain metal in their composition. Such minerals are used manufacturing cement, chemicals fertilizers, etc, Although nonmetalic minerals contain calcium, sodium, and potassium in the form of compounds, metal cannot be extracted from them. They are also used as ornaments,fuel, idols and diamonds.