Which of the following statements is/are NOT CORRECT regarding Manganese?
1. Andhra Pradesh has the largest reserves of Manganese in India.
2. Manganese is an important raw material for the smelting of iron ore, and it is also used for manufacturing ferro alloys.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer: (1) Only 1
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect because the largest reserves of manganese in India are located in Odisha, not in Andhra Pradesh. Odisha holds the leading position in terms of both the country's total manganese reserves and its production. It is followed by Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.
Statement 2 is entirely true. Manganese is primarily used for smelting iron into steel and for manufacturing ferro-manganese alloys. Approximately 10 kilograms of manganese are required to produce about 1 ton of steel. It is also utilized in the manufacture of bleaching powder, insecticides, and paints.
Additional Points:
Production: In terms of production, Madhya Pradesh is India's largest producing state, whereas Odisha ranks first in terms of reserves.
Major Mines: The Keonjhar, Bonai, and Sundargarh mines in Odisha are renowned for manganese. The Nagpur and Bhandara belts in Maharashtra are also significant.
Exports: India is also a major exporter of manganese, with Japan, the USA, and European nations being its primary buyers.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Which place is known as India's 'Manganese Capital'?
Answer: Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh).
Question: What is the primary function of manganese in steel manufacturing?
Answer: To provide strength to the steel and prevent it from becoming brittle.