Mineral Resources

A mineral is a naturally occurring substance with a definite chemical composition and physical properties.

1. Metallic Minerals:
   • Contain metals; good conductors of heat and electricity.
   • Examples: Iron, copper, gold, bauxite.
   • Ferrous Minerals: Contain iron (e.g., iron ore, manganese).
   • Non-Ferrous Minerals: Do not contain iron (e.g., gold, silver, copper).
2. Non-Metallic Minerals:
   • Do not contain metals; used in industries and manufacturing.
   • Examples: Limestone, mica, gypsum.
3. Energy Minerals:
   • Provide energy; essential for power generation.
   • Examples: Coal, petroleum, natural gas, uranium.

Extraction of Minerals

1. Mining: The process of extracting minerals from the Earth.
2. Open-Cast Mining: Minerals are extracted from shallow depths.
3. Shaft Mining: Minerals are extracted from deep underground.
4. Drilling: Used for petroleum and natural gas.
5. Quarrying: Extraction of rocks and stones.

Distribution of Minerals

1. Minerals are unevenly distributed across the world.
2. Asia: Rich in iron ore, coal, and manganese.
3. Africa: Known for gold, diamonds, and platinum.
4. North America: Abundant in coal and petroleum.
5. South America: Leading producer of iron ore and bauxite.
6. Europe: Famous for iron ore and coal.
7. Australia: Largest producer of bauxite and gold.

Uses of Minerals

1. Manufacturing industries (e.g., steel from iron).
2. Construction (e.g., limestone for cement).
3. Technology (e.g., silicon for electronics).

Power Resources

1. Conventional Sources
   1. Coal:
      • Formed from decomposed plants over millions of years.
      • Used in industries and power generation.
   2. Petroleum:
      • Found beneath the Earth’s crust.
      • Refined into petrol, diesel, kerosene.
   3. Natural Gas:
      • Found alongside petroleum deposits.
      • Used as a cleaner fuel for cooking and industries.
   4. Hydel Power (Hydropower):
      • Generated from the energy of moving water.
      • Example: Bhakra Nangal Dam in India.
2. Non-Conventional Sources
   1. Solar Energy: Energy generated from sunlight using solar panels.
   2. Wind Energy: Energy produced using windmills.
   3. Tidal Energy: Energy generated from the movement of ocean tides.
   4. Geothermal Energy: Energy extracted from heat within the Earth.
   5. Biogas: Energy produced from organic waste like animal dung.

Conservation of Resources

1. Minerals:
   1. Recycling and reusing minerals.
   2. Reducing wastage during mining and manufacturing.
   3. Promoting alternative materials.
2. Power Resources:
   1. Switching to renewable sources like solar and wind energy.
   2. Efficient use of electricity and fuel.
   3. Developing sustainable technologies.

Important Points:

1. Minerals and power resources are vital for economic and industrial growth.
2. Conventional resources like coal and petroleum are exhaustible, while non-conventional resources like solar and wind are renewable.
3. Conservation and sustainable management are essential for a balanced future.