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Mineral Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mineral

[หˆmษชnษ™rษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

natural resources

A naturally occurring inorganic substance with a definite chemical composition and a crystalline structure. Minerals are typically solid, stable at room temperature, and have a characteristic color, hardness, and luster.

Synonyms

element, ore, rock.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mineral

Use this term when referring to naturally occurring inorganic substances that have a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure. It's often used in geology, chemistry, and when talking about nutritional substances needed for the body.

  • Quartz is a common mineral found in many types of rocks.
  • Calcium is an essential mineral for healthy bones.
rock

This word is suitable when referring to a naturally occurring solid aggregate of minerals or mineraloid matter. It's used in geology and landscape descriptions.

  • The scientist collected samples of metamorphic rock for study.
  • The cliff was made entirely of sedimentary rock.
element

This word is best used when talking about a basic substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. It's commonly used in chemistry and physics.

  • Oxygen is an element crucial for human respiration.
  • The periodic table organizes all known chemical elements.
ore

Use this term when referring to a naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be profitably extracted. It is often used in mining, metallurgy, and industrial contexts.

  • Iron ore is a key raw material in the production of steel.
  • The miners are extracting copper ore from the mountain.

Examples of usage

  • The Earth's crust is composed of various minerals such as quartz and feldspar.
  • Minerals are essential for the proper functioning of the human body.
Context #2 | Noun

nutrition

A substance that is essential for the normal functioning of the human body, obtained from food or supplements. Minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc are important for various bodily functions.

Synonyms

element, micronutrient, nutrient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mineral

The word 'mineral' can also refer to dietary elements necessary for health, typically in the context of nutrition.

  • Calcium is a vital mineral important for bone health.
  • Foods like spinach and nuts are rich in essential minerals.
nutrient

Refer to 'nutrient' when talking about any substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and maintaining life. Can be used broadly in discussions of diet, health, and biology.

  • Proteins, vitamins, and carbohydrates are all essential nutrients.
  • Plants absorb nutrients from the soil to grow.
micronutrient

Use 'micronutrient' specifically when discussing vitamins and minerals required by organisms in small quantities for proper functioning. Often appears in the context of nutrition and health.

  • Iron is a crucial micronutrient necessary for the production of hemoglobin.
  • Deficiency in certain micronutrients can lead to various health issues.
element

Choose 'element' when talking about pure substances consisting of only one type of atom, particularly in scientific and educational contexts.

  • Oxygen is an essential element for most life forms on Earth.
  • The periodic table organizes all known chemical elements.

Examples of usage

  • Eating a balanced diet ensures that you get an adequate amount of minerals.
  • Minerals play a crucial role in maintaining overall health.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Minerals are classified into two main groups: silicate minerals, which contain silicon and oxygen, and non-silicate minerals, which do not.
  • Some minerals, like quartz, are commonly found in the Earth's crust and are used in technology, such as glass making.
  • Many minerals are essential for human health, such as calcium for bones and iron in blood.

Geology

  • The study of minerals is vital in geology, allowing scientists to understand the Earthโ€™s structure and history.
  • Minerals form through various processes, including crystallization from magma, precipitation from water, and metamorphism under heat and pressure.
  • There are over 5,000 recognized types of minerals, with new ones being discovered regularly.

Culture

  • Minerals have been used in art for centuries; for example, powdered minerals were used to create pigments in ancient paintings.
  • Gemstones, which are minerals, have been treasured throughout history for their beauty and are often believed to hold special powers.
  • Certain minerals play a role in traditional medicine and natural healing practices across various cultures.

Economics

  • Mining, the extraction of minerals from the Earth, is a major global industry that provides raw materials for construction and technology.
  • Precious minerals like gold, silver, and platinum have been historically significant as currency and are still sought after for trade.
  • The value of minerals can fluctuate greatly in the market, influencing economies around the world.

Origin of 'mineral'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mineral' comes from the Latin 'minerale,' which means 'something mined.'
  • Historically, minerals were classified as any substance that could not be classified as a plant or animal.
  • The term has evolved to describe inorganic substances that have a defined chemical structure.

The word 'mineral' has its roots in the Latin word 'mineralis', meaning 'something mined'. The concept of minerals has been known to humans since ancient times, with early civilizations using various minerals for tools, decorations, and medicinal purposes. The study of minerals, known as mineralogy, has developed over centuries, leading to a better understanding of the properties and uses of different minerals.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,650, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.