Page 121 - Active Science 5 Ebook and Activity

Let’s Recapitulate

Answer the given questions.
1. What are minerals?
2. Differentiate between metallic and non-metallic minerals.

U ses of Rocks and Minerals
There are lots of products which we have been extracting from rocks and minerals since

ancient times to this day. How do we use rocks and minerals? There are some common
uses which have been given below.

Construction
We use rocks and minerals in constructing buildings houses, offices, etc., from the time
we lay the foundation, till the completion of the building. To make roads, we use tar; for
flooring, we use marble; for pillars, we use iron and steel. The basic thing, cement, is also

derived from minerals.

Metals

Utensils are a necessity for one and all. These are made from iron, copper, aluminium and
steel and are used in kitchen. All the utensils either man–made or obtained, are made
from mineral ores. To make jewellery and ornaments, we use gold, silver and platinum.

Gemstones
Gemstones are basically used for jewellery. Gold, diamond, ruby and emerald are the
most commonly used gemstone in making jewellery.

Fuels
We use uranium to produce a large amount of energy. Coal is used to cook food and to

produce electrical energy. Coal keeps the weather warm in winters.

Fertilizers

To increase the yield of crops, we use minerals like sulphate and nitrates which are
constituents of fertilizers.

Salt
Salt made from rocks is called rock salt, i.e. kala namak. We use rock salt in food and it,
is known for its benefits in digestion. Calcium, iron, potassium are all minerals required
for the growth of our body. We get these minerals from fruits and vegetables.

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Active Science-5