Minerals: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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