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Minerals Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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minerals

[ˈmɪnərəlz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

geology

Naturally occurring substances that are solid and inorganic, with a distinct chemical composition and crystalline structure. Minerals are essential for the functioning of the human body and are often used in various industries.

Synonyms

crystals, ores, rocks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
minerals

Use when referring to naturally occurring substances with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure. It is commonly used in geology, nutrition, and material science.

  • Minerals like quartz and feldspar are essential components of rocks.
  • Calcium and iron are important minerals for human health.
rocks

Appropriate when referring to the solid mineral material forming part of the surface of the earth and other similar planets. Commonly used in everyday language, geology, and construction.

  • The children collected different types of rocks during their field trip.
  • Granite is a common type of rock used in construction.
crystals

Best suited when describing solid materials with atoms or molecules arranged in a highly ordered, repeating pattern. Common in contexts like geology, jewelry, and chemistry.

  • She collects crystals for their beauty and supposed healing properties.
  • The scientist examined the crystal structure of the new material.
ores

Used when talking about naturally occurring materials from which a metal or valuable mineral can be profitably extracted. Often mentioned in mining, metallurgy, and economics.

  • Iron ores are mined and processed to produce steel.
  • The discovery of gold ores led to a rush of miners to the area.

Examples of usage

  • Minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica are commonly found in granite.
  • Iron, calcium, and potassium are important minerals for human health.
Context #2 | Noun

nutrition

Nutrients that are necessary for the body in small amounts to maintain health and wellbeing. They include essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium.

Synonyms

elements, micronutrients, nutrients.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
minerals

Refer to naturally occurring substances that are usually inorganic, have a definite chemical composition, and a specific structure. Commonly spoken about in geology and nutrition.

  • Geologists study various types of minerals found in the Earth's crust
  • A balanced diet includes essential minerals like calcium and iron
nutrients

Broad term in nutrition that includes everything an organism needs to live and grow, both in large (macronutrients) and small (micronutrients) quantities.

  • A balanced diet provides all the essential nutrients our body needs
  • The soil doesn't have enough nutrients for the crops to grow well
elements

Used in chemistry and refers to substances that consist of only one type of atom, forming the basic building blocks of matter. This word is also used in general discussions about fundamental parts of a larger system.

  • Oxygen is one of the most important elements for life
  • The periodic table organizes all known chemical elements
micronutrients

Nutrition context, specifically representing essential vitamins and minerals needed in small amounts for proper body function.

  • Micronutrients like vitamins C and D are crucial for maintaining good health
  • Deficiency of any micronutrients can lead to serious health issues

Examples of usage

  • Consuming a balanced diet ensures that you get all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
  • Calcium is a mineral that is crucial for bone health.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Minerals are categorized into two main groups: macrominerals (like calcium and magnesium, needed in larger amounts) and trace minerals (like iron and zinc, required in smaller amounts).
  • They play a crucial role in our bodies, such as helping build bones, transmitting nerve signals, and maintaining heart rhythm.

Health

  • Each mineral performs specific functions; for example, phosphorus helps to form bones and teeth, while potassium is essential for cell function.
  • Deficiencies in essential minerals can lead to health problems, such as osteoporosis from lack of calcium.

Geology

  • There are over 5,000 known minerals, but only a few dozen are common constituents of rocks.
  • Minerals can form in four primary ways: crystallization from magma, precipitation from water, changes under pressure, and biological processes.

Pop Culture

  • Minerals have inspired many works of art and jewelry, with cultures crafting beautiful pieces from stones like jade and turquoise.
  • In video games and movies, minerals often represent valuable resources, with characters mining them for survival and crafting.

Origin of 'minerals'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'minerale', which means 'of a mine' or 'mine product', highlighting its earthy sources.
  • In the 19th century, the term expanded to include not just metals but also other solid, naturally occurring substances.

The term 'minerals' originated from the Latin word 'mineralis', meaning 'something obtained by mining'. Minerals have played a crucial role in human history, from being used as tools and decorations by early civilizations to being essential components in modern technology and industry.

See also: mineralization, mineralize, mineralized.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,773, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.