Which of the following minerals are found in the state of Kerala?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
Monazite, thorium, and bauxite clay
Explanation
Kerala is well-known for its rich deposits of specific heavy minerals due to its coastal and unique geological formation. Vast reserves of monazite and ilmenite are found in the coastal sands of Kerala, especially in the beach sands of Kollam and Alappuzha districts. Monazite sand is primarily a major source of thorium, which is extremely crucial for India's Nuclear Power Programme.
Apart from this, significant deposits of high-quality bauxite clay and China clay (Kaolin) are also found in Kerala, which are used in the aluminum and ceramic industries. On the other hand, fossil fuel reserves like coal and petroleum are not found in Kerala.
Key Points
Monazite is found in abundance in the coastal sands of Kerala, which is the main source of thorium.
The largest reserve of thorium in India is located on the sea coasts of Kerala.
Bauxite, required for aluminum production, and various types of industrial clay are also found in the state.
Minerals like iron ore, coal, and petroleum are mainly found in Central and Eastern India (such as Jharkhand, Odisha), not in Kerala.
Additional Facts
Thorium is planned to be used as fuel in the third stage of India's 'Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme'.
Other major coastal minerals found in Kerala include rutile, zircon, and sillimanite.
Entities like the Kerala State Mineral Development Corporation (KSMD) and Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) carry out the mining and processing of these heavy minerals here.
Important Questions
Question: Monazite sand is primarily the source of which important nuclear mineral?
Answer: Thorium.
Question: In which coastal region of Kerala are deposits of heavy mineral sand found in abundance?
Answer: Chavara (Kollam district).