Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of minerals ?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Minerals are evenly distributed over space.
Minerals have some common characteristics. They are found unevenly, good quality ores are few, and they get used up over time.
Option (1) There is inverse relationship in quality and quantity of minerals. — A characteristic of minerals. Good quality minerals are less in quantity than low quality minerals.
Option (2) Minerals are evenly distributed over space. — Not a characteristic of minerals. Minerals are unevenly distributed over space. Some areas are rich in minerals and others have very few. NTA changed one word of the book (“unevenly” to “evenly”), and a true line became false. Read every word before you mark the answer.
Option (3) All minerals are exhaustible over time. — A characteristic of minerals. Minerals are used up over time and do not have a second crop, so they must be conserved.
Option (4) They cannot be replenished immediately. — A characteristic of minerals. Minerals take a long time to develop geologically, so they cannot be replenished immediately at the time of need.
NCERT (2026-27): “Minerals have certain characteristics. These are unevenly distributed over space. There is inverse relationship in quality and quantity of minerals i.e. good quality minerals are less in quantity as compared to low quality minerals. The third main characteristic is that all minerals are exhaustible over time. These take long to develop geologically and they cannot be replenished immediately at the time of need.” |