Ores, minerals, and gangue
Metallurgy and Extraction (General Principles) · Chemistry
Molecule viewer
Interactive 3DBall-and-stick models with true bond angles — switch molecule to compare shapes.
Controls
Drag the sliders or type a value — the simulation updates live.
Study notes
Is bauxite an ore or a mineral? Both — explain the distinction. Step 1: Bauxite (hydrated Al₂O₃) is a mineral — naturally occurring. Step 2: It's an ORE because aluminium is extracted from it profitably. Step 3: Clay also contains aluminium (mineral) but isn't an ore — extraction uneconomical. Step 4: 'Ore' is economic; 'mineral' is geological. Price/technology can promote a mineral to ore!