Why Classify Minerals?

Minerals are so varied in their properties and uses that, for study and commercial purposes, they are grouped into broad classes. The main classification divides minerals into metallic minerals, non-metallic minerals, and energy (mineral fuel) resources.

Tree classifying metallic, non-metallic and energy minerals

Metallic Minerals

Metallic minerals contain metals in their raw form. They are further divided into:

  • Ferrous minerals — those that contain iron. Examples: iron ore, manganese, nickel and cobalt. They provide a strong base for the development of metallurgical (metal) industries.
  • Non-ferrous minerals — those that do not contain iron. Examples: copper, bauxite, lead, zinc and gold. They play a vital role in a number of metallurgical, engineering and electrical industries.

Non-Metallic and Energy Minerals

  • Non-metallic minerals — minerals that do not contain metals. Examples: mica, limestone, gypsum, salt, granite and marble. They are used in industries such as electrical, cement, construction and chemicals.
  • Energy minerals (mineral fuels) — minerals used as sources of energy. Examples: coal, petroleum and natural gas.

Exam tip: Learn the branches — Metallic (ferrous: iron, manganese; non-ferrous: copper, bauxite, gold), Non-metallic (mica, limestone), and Energy (coal, petroleum, natural gas).

Questions and Answers

Q1. How are minerals classified?

Answer: Minerals are classified into metallic minerals (which contain metals), non-metallic minerals (which do not contain metals) and energy minerals (mineral fuels). Metallic minerals are further divided into ferrous (containing iron) and non-ferrous (not containing iron).

Q2. Distinguish between ferrous and non-ferrous minerals with examples.

Answer: Ferrous minerals contain iron — examples are iron ore, manganese, nickel and cobalt — and form the base of the metallurgical industries. Non-ferrous minerals do not contain iron — examples are copper, bauxite, lead, zinc and gold.

Q3. Give two examples each of non-metallic minerals and energy minerals.

Answer: Non-metallic minerals: mica and limestone (also gypsum, salt, granite, marble). Energy minerals: coal and petroleum (also natural gas).