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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Minerals and Metals?

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The main difference between minerals and metals is that minerals are solid, naturally occurring inorganic substances found in the Earth's crust, while metals are elementary substances, such as gold, silver, and copper, which are crystalline when solid and naturally occur in minerals. Here are some key differences between minerals and metals:

  • Chemical Composition: Minerals have a unique chemical composition, while metals are made of one or more elements.
  • Structure: Minerals have a crystal structure, while metals are characterized by a regular, three-dimensional structure.
  • Reactivity: Metals are generally more reactive than minerals.

Some examples of minerals include quartz, talc, diamonds, and calcite. Examples of metals include gold, silver, copper, zinc, iron, and tin. Minerals can be found in rocks, ores, and natural mineral deposits, while metals are often extracted from minerals. It is also important to note that certain minerals, such as hematite and magnetite, are found in iron ores.

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  • What is the Difference Between Minerals and Metals?
  • Comparative Table: Minerals vs Metals

    • Comparative Table: Minerals vs Metals

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between minerals and metals:

    Feature Minerals Metals
    Definition Minerals are solid, naturally occurring inorganic substances found in the Earth's crust, with a unique chemical composition and crystal structure. Metals are elementary substances, such as gold, silver, and copper, which are crystalline when solid and naturally occur in minerals.
    Classification Minerals are classified as native elements, sulfides, sulfosalts, oxides, hydroxides, halides, carbonates, phosphates, silicates, borates, sulfates, chromates, and tungstates. Metals are classified as precious metals (gold, silver, platinum, diamonds) and base metals (zinc, iron, tin, etc.).
    Occurrence Minerals occur in the Earth's crust, in rocks, ores, and natural mineral deposits. Metals rarely occur in native form, except for a few like gold, silver, and copper.
    Properties Minerals have varying appearances, hardness, and reactivities, depending on their composition. Metals are generally more reactive than minerals and often exhibit high melting and boiling points, as well as high density.
    Uses Minerals have various applications, such as in the production of gems, ceramics, electronics, and construction materials. Metals are used in a wide range of applications, including electronics, construction, automotive, and jewelry.

    Remember that ores are mineral deposits that can be used to extract metals economically. Not all minerals are ores, but all ores are minerals.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.