Mineral Resources

2026 Syllabus Objectives

By the end of this topic, you should be able to:

  1. Identify the main locations of limestone, gypsum and rock salt extraction from a map, and understand their uses
  2. Identify the main metallic and non-metallic mineral resources of Pakistan, and in what quantities they are extracted and exist as reserves
  3. Understand the extent to which these can be exploited
  4. Describe the environmental problems caused by mineral extraction
  5. Evaluate the benefits of developing mineral resources and understand the sustainability of extraction
  6. Identify the main imported minerals, where they come from, and in what quantities

What is a Mineral?

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A mineral is a naturally occurring element or compound that is formed by inorganic processes and contains a crystalline structure. This means minerals are not alive and are not made from living things.

Key features of minerals:

  • They are solids (not liquids or gases)
  • They are formed naturally in the earth (not made by humans)
  • They are not alive or made of living things
  • They have a definite shape and structure

How are Minerals Formed?

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Minerals are created through several natural processes:

1. Solidification of Molten Rocks

When hot, liquid rock cools down and becomes solid, minerals form inside it:

  • Magma is molten rock inside the earth. When it cools and solidifies inside the earth's surface, it forms Plutonic or Intrusive rocks
  • Lava is molten rock that comes out onto the earth's surface (during volcanic eruptions). When it cools and solidifies on the surface, it forms Volcanic or Extrusive rocks
  • Over time, heat and pressure can change these rocks into metamorphic rocks

2. Evaporation of Water

When water containing dissolved minerals evaporates (dries up), crystals are left behind. For example, rock salt forms when salty water evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals.

3. Heating and Compression of Rocks

When rocks are heated and squeezed deep underground over long periods, they change form. For example, limestone (calcium carbonate) can be compressed and heated to form marble.

4. Slow Heating in the Subsurface

Slow heating deep underground can form large crystals and gemstones.

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