mineral
MIN-uh-rul
ˈmɪnərəl
A solid, naturally occurring inorganic substance with a definite chemical composition and a regular atomic structure.
Key characteristics are natural, inorganic, solid, definite chemical composition, and crystal structure. Rocks are made of minerals.
The story behind the word. The word "mineral" comes from the Medieval Latin word "minerale," which literally meant "something obtained from a mine." For centuries, people have dug into the Earth to extract valuable substances. This root highlights the historical connection between mining and the discovery of these naturally occurring, distinct chemical compounds that form the building blocks of our planet.
Word relationships
- ore: A rock or sediment that contains a valuable mineral.
- crystal: A specific type of mineral with a distinct geometric shape.
- organic matter: Substances derived from living organisms.
Commonly confused with
- rock: A mineral is a single, naturally occurring inorganic substance with a specific composition, whereas a rock is an aggregate of one or more minerals.
Word family
- mineralogical (adjective): Relating to mineralogy.
- mineralogy (noun): The scientific study of minerals.
- mineralogist (noun): A scientist who studies minerals.
Collocations
- essential mineral
- trace mineral
- raw mineral
- mineral deposit
- mineral resources
Example sentences
- "Quartz is a common mineral found in many types of rock." Science class.
- "Our bodies need essential minerals like calcium and iron for healthy functioning." Nutritional advice.
Memory hook
'MIN-uh-rul' sounds like 'mine-rule,' as in the rule for what you find in a mine. Mine's rule
When not to use
Don't confuse with rocks (which are aggregates of minerals) or organic substances.
Fun facts
- There are over 5,000 known mineral species on Earth.
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