Distinguish Between the Ferrous and Nonferrous Minerals
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 14th, 2023
The difference between Ferrous and Non Ferrous Minerals is that Ferrous minerals contain an iron base, whereas Nonferrous minerals do not have iron. Examples of ferrous minerals are iron ore and manganese. Brass and copper are two examples of non-metallic or non-ferrous minerals. In ferrous minerals, iron is found in the +2 oxidation state. Iron is found in the +3 oxidation state in ferric minerals.
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Difference Between Ferrous and Non Ferrous Minerals
Metallic iron and ferrous alloy are examples of metals. Non-ferrous metals and alloys do not contain significant amounts of iron. For example, copper, aluminum, etc. Following are the differences between ferrous and non-ferrous minerals:
| Ferrous Minerals | Nonferrous Minerals |
| Iron makes up most of these minerals. | These minerals don’t primarily consist of iron. |
| They are magnetic minerals. | They are not magnetic minerals. |
| Less corrosion-resistant. | More corrosion-resistant. |
| These minerals are heavier. | These minerals weigh less. |
| They are comprised of iron as hydroxide, carbonates, and sulfides. | They are comprised of several elements and combinations. |
| Ferrous Minerals are good conductors of electricity. | Nonferrous Minerals are bad conductors of electricity. |
| Examples are manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), etc. | Examples are gold (Au), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), etc. |
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