Mineral

Naturally occurring inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition.

mineral substance geological mineral

A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic solid substance with a definite chemical composition and an ordered internal structure. Minerals are typically found in crystalline form and are essential components of rocks.

Pronunciation

/ˈmɪnərəl/

Etymology

The word 'mineral' comes from the Latin 'minerale,' referring to things mined, in turn derived from 'minera' meaning a mine.

Explain Like I’m 5

Minerals are like nature's building blocks - they’re solid, not alive, and have a specific recipe of chemicals that make them unique, like how salt is made of sodium and chlorine.

Fun Facts

Diamonds are a mineral formed deep within the Earth
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth
Some minerals, like gold and silver, are valuable metals

FAQ

What are minerals? Naturally occurring inorganic solids with a definite chemical composition
How are they formed? Through geological processes like cooling magma or evaporation of water
What is a mineral used for? Many minerals are used in industry, construction, and electronics

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

Substance Rock

Hyponyms — Specific Examples

Quartz Feldspar Mica

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

Rock Earth

Indexes

geological material inorganic natural object

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