Minerals are “homogenous, naturally occurring substances with a definable internal structure.” They are found in varied forms in nature, ranging from the hardest diamond to the softest talc. Rocks are combinations of homogeneous substances called minerals.
Various metals are extracted from these minerals after refinement.
Conservation of minerals is necessary because:
- The formation of minerals takes a long geological period of millions of years.
- They are finite in nature, non-renewable and exhaustible.
- The rate of replenishment of minerals is infinitely small in comparison to rate of consumption.
- They have to be preserved for our future generations.
Importance of energy
Energy is required for all activities. It is needed to cook, to provide light and heat, to propel vehicles and to drive machinery in industries. It is the basic requirement for economic development. Every sector of national economy—agriculture, industry, transport and commerce needs greater inputs of energy. Energy demands, in the form of electricity, are growing because of increasing use of electrical gadgets and appliances.
Ways to conserve energy
- Using more of public transport system instead of individual vehicles.
- Switching off electrical devices when not in use, using power saving devices.
- Using non-conventional sources of energy such as solar energy, wind energy, etc.
- Getting the power equipment regularly checked to detect damages and leakages
The topics discussed in this chapter are as follows:
- What is a mineral?
- Mode of Occurrence of Minerals
- Classification of Minerals
- Ferrous Minerals
- Non-Ferrous Minerals
- Non-Metallic Minerals
- Rock Minerals
- Conservation of Minerals
- Energy Resources
- Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
- Conservation of Energy Resources
