Unit 6
The Abundant Metals

Overview

Unit 6 is the first of two units devoted to the metallic minerals. The unit opens with a discussion of the properties unique to metals, and then discusses the special properties and the formation, distribution, and extraction of the “abundant” metals: iron, aluminum, magnesium, silicon, titanium, and manganese.

Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to

1. define metal.
2. describe the processes by which ore deposits are formed.
3. discuss how iron occurs from residual, sedimentary, and igneous activity.
4. describe the mining and smelting of iron ore.
5. discuss the occurrence of manganese and the problems associated with extracting manganese nodules from the deep ocean floor.
6. explain how bauxite forms, discuss the location of bauxite reserves, and explain why aluminum is rarely produced where the aluminum ore is mined.
7. describe the formation, processing procedures, uses, and locations of major reserves of titanium, magnesium, and silicon.