Question 14
- Define rock
- State the relationship between ore grade and ore recovery
- List six rock minerals
- Outline five usefulness of rocks to man
This question was fairly answered by those who attempted it. It is a popular question among the candidates. The question requested the candidates to give the following points:
(a) Definition of Rock
A rock is a naturally occurring solid made up of aggregate of minerals.
(b) Grade and Ore Recovery
As Grade increases Recovery decreases and vice versa
(c) Rock-forming Minerals
- Plagioclase Feldspar
- Potassium feldspar
- Quartz
- Dolomite
- Calcite
- Biotite
- Muscovite
- Pyroxene
- Olivine
- Muscovite
- Hornblende
(d) Usefulness of Rocks
- Rocks form the main source of mineral deposits such as gold, diamond, copper etc
- They provide essential raw materials for both light and heavy industries e.g. limestone for cement production
- Some beautiful rocks such as marble can be polished as ornaments for decoration in homes, churches and mosques
- Rocks such as coal serve as sources of fuel for domestic and industrial uses
- Rocks serve as tourist attraction e.g. Olumo rock in Abeokuta, the volcanic rocks of Jos.
- Rocks are used in construction works e.g. building of houses, dam etc.