what are minerals class 10

Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and a crystalline structure. They are typically solid and are formed by geological processes. Minerals can be classified into two main categories: metallic and non-metallic. Metallic minerals contain metal elements and are generally found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, while non-metallic minerals do not contain metals and include materials such as coal and limestone. Minerals are found in varied forms in nature, ranging from the hardest diamond to the softest talc. They are used for various purposes, including livelihood, decoration, festivities, and religious and ceremonial rites. The study of minerals is called mineralogy, and there are around 4000 minerals on the Earths surface. Minerals are usually found in ores, which are accumulations of minerals mixed with other elements. They can occur in igneous and metamorphic rocks, sedimentary rocks, and as a result of the decomposition of surface rocks and the removal of soluble constituents.