Metals & Minerals

Properties and uses of metals, mining in SA

Metals and Minerals in SA

South Africa is rich in minerals — substances found in rocks. Minerals that contain metal are called ores. We mine gold, platinum, iron, manganese, chrome and coal. Mining is one of SA's most important industries.

Example

Properties and Uses of Metals

• Gold: shiny, does not rust → jewellery, electronics • Iron: strong, magnetic → buildings, cars, bridges • Copper: conducts electricity well → electrical wires • Aluminium: light, does not rust → cans, aeroplanes • Platinum: very rare, heat-resistant → catalytic converters

Note

Remember

Metals are usually shiny, conduct heat and electricity, and can be bent or shaped. Mining creates jobs but also damages the environment. SA must balance mining with caring for the land.

Key Vocabulary

MineralA natural substance found in rocks in the earth

OreRock that contains enough metal to be worth mining

MiningDigging materials from the ground

ConductTo allow heat or electricity to pass through

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