Which of the following is an example of a non-metallic mineral which is inorganic in origin?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Mica
Minerals are metallic or non-metallic. Non-metallic minerals are either organic in origin, from buried plant and animal life, or inorganic.
Option (1) Bauxite — Incorrect. A metallic mineral. It has no iron, so it is non-ferrous.
Option (2) Coal — Incorrect. A non-metallic mineral, but organic in origin. It is a fossil fuel formed from buried plant life.
Option (3) Mica — Correct. A non-metallic mineral of inorganic origin, like limestone and graphite.
Option (4) Manganese — Incorrect. A metallic mineral. It is ferrous, like iron ore.
NCERT (2026-27): “As, it is clear from the Fig. 5.1 metallic minerals are the sources of metals. Iron ore, copper, gold produce metal and are included in this category. Metallic minerals are further divided into ferrous and non-ferrous metallic minerals. Ferrous, as you know, refers to iron. All those minerals which have iron content are ferrous such as iron ore itself and those which do not have iron content are non-ferrous such as copper, bauxite, etc.” “Non-metallic minerals are either organic in origin such as fossil fuels also known as mineral fuels which are derived from the buried animal and plant life such as coal and petroleum. Other type of non-metallic minerals are inorganic in origin such as mica, limestone and graphite, etc.” |