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When we talk about a balanced diet, it is obvious that the diet should contain appropriate amounts of vitamins and minerals. In simpler terms, vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients, which play a major role in the normal functioning of the human body. Prolonged deficiency or overtaking of any of these nutrients may lead to severe health conditions. In order to avoid such circumstances, one must understand the recommended dietary requirements (RDA) suggested with reference to the age, sex and weight of an individual. Understanding the types of vitamins and minerals and their roles will help in careful planning of the diet.

List of Vitamins and Their Roles

There are 13 vitamins, which are categorized under two major types, namely water soluble (four) and fat soluble (nine). The former type includes vitamin A, D, E and K, whereas the latter encompasses vitamin B and subtypes and vitamin C. As the name indicates, water soluble vitamins can be dissolved in water, while fat soluble ones are absorbed by the body using lipids and/or fats. Following is a list of vitamins and the role of vitamins in the body:

Vitamin A: The role of vitamin A is to regulate the tissues and membranes and also to keep the skin, eye, bone and teeth healthy. Vitamin A is present in certain food items such as milk, egg yolk, carrots, leafy vegetables, oranges, lime and pineapple.

Vitamin B: As already mentioned, there are nine types of vitamin B, each of which plays an important function. To mention a few, vitamin B plays a significant role in growth, development, cell division, carbohydrate metabolism and neurological function. Vitamin B rich foods include some vegetables, legumes, fruits, whole grains, nuts, eggs, meat and poultry.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is responsible for tissue formation and maintenance of the cell membranes. It is present in certain fruits (particularly citrus fruits) and vegetables like oranges, lime, tomatoes, onions, broccoli, peppers and cabbage.

Vitamin D: Human body can synthesize vitamin D on its own by exposing to sunlight. The role of vitamin D is to boost the health of the bones and teeth. Foods that contain vitamin D include milk, egg yolk, salmon and other seafood.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is essential for hair growth, tissue healing and other metabolic processes. It plays a major role in protecting the tissues of the eyes, skin and liver. Vitamin E is present in nearly all types of fruits and vegetables.

Vitamin K: Vitamin K can also be produced by our body. It is essential for coagulation and/or clotting of blood. Vitamin K rich foods include dairy products, soybean and green leafy vegetables.

List of Minerals and Their Roles

In general, minerals are required in small amounts in the body. Hence, they are also referred to as micronutrients. Even though, relatively less amount of minerals is needed for the body, their role in enzymatic reactions is crucial for normal metabolic processes. Based on the quantity of the minerals required for an adult, minerals are broadly classified into two types, namely, macro minerals (required about 100 mg per day) and micro minerals (required about 1-100mg per day). The former type includes calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium, whereas the latter comprises chromium, copper, manganese, selenium, sulfur and zinc. Some of the important dietary minerals along with their major roles are discussed below:

Sodium: The role of sodium is to maintain the intracellular fluid level, pH balance and electrical potentials of the neurological system. It also aids in normal functioning of the body muscles and nerves. The most common source of sodium is common salt. In addition, sodium is found in the processed foods like bakery and canned products.

Potassium: The mineral potassium helps to regulate the functions of nervous system and muscles by maintaining the correct amount of water concentration. It is found in tomatoes, potatoes, legumes, leafy vegetables, banana, dried fruits and citrus fruits.

Calcium: Calcium is one of the most important minerals, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. Calcium rich foods include milk and dairy products, green vegetables and seafood.

Iron: Iron is a main component of blood, which carries out a vital function of circulating oxygen to various parts of the body. Iron rich foods are green leafy vegetables, whole grains, beans, dried fruits, eggs, sea fish and red meat.

Chromium: Studies have found that the mineral chromium is required for the controlling the blood sugar level. It is found in high amounts in food items like vegetable oils, unrefined foods and meats.

Zinc: Zinc is necessary for cell growth, wound healing and also, in regulating the function of the immune system. Legumes and meat like beef, lamb and pork are the rich sources of zinc.

It is to be noted that each of the vitamins and minerals are involved in a number of body functions. It is better to obtain vitamins and minerals from the food sources that we consume, rather than relying on nutritional supplements. Also, the frequency of overdoses is more in case of taking supplements. On the safer side, intake of vitamin and mineral supplements should be done under medical supervision.

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Do you want to take the idea about the photo? And do you want to get to know about what it is? Do you want to know how the photograph comes from? In fact, a photograph is an image created by light falling on a light-sensitive surface. Most photographs are created using a camera, which uses a lens to focus the scene’s visible wavelengths of light into a reproduction of what the human eye would see. The process and practice of creating photographs is called photography. I do believe that you must have the pictures of your own. I want to ask you one question: when you take the picture, how do you feel? For my part, when I take the picture, I am so happy to enjoy the photo fun. Originally all photographs were monochromatic, or hand-painted in color. Although methods for developing color photos were available as early as 1861, they did not become widely available until the 1940s or 50s, and even so, until the 1960s most photographs were taken in black and white. Nowadays, more and more people want to design another kind of arts so that they use the photofunia to get the beautiful photos for the special photo effects, have you get the information about the Photoshop? If you got it, you can make the beautiful photos for yourself.

Everyone knows that there is a long list of essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs to function properly. Why do we need vitamins and minerals? The essential vitamins and minerals perform a range of functions related to the growth and maintenance of the human body. The following article gives a list of the essential vitamins and minerals and some information on their functions and which foods contain them.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals List

For the sake of this simplicity in understanding, I am dividing this article into two partsEssential VitaminsEssential MineralsEssential Vitamins:

Here are the vitamins essential for the body with some information about their functions.

Vitamin A: The first and foremost function of Vitamin A is to maintain good eyesight especially in the dark. A vitamin A deficiency is most strongly highlighted by poor vision in dim light. It also helps maintain skin health.

Vitamin B: Vitamin B is not just one vitamin, but also includes several other vitamins. Vitamin B is generally associated with metabolism and the various sub-vitamins aid digestion and maintain digestive health. The various essential vitamins under the Vitamin B umbrella are Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin), Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), Vitamin B7 (biotin), Vitamin B9 (folic acid) and Vitamin B12. Vitamin B can be found in milk, meat and nuts.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a very important vitamin group which helps build and maintain healthy teeth and gums. Vitamin C also helps in absorption of iron and aids formation of collagen and enzymes. Vitamin C can be found in most citric fruits.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is one of those vitamins which is not found abundantly in food items. In fact, early morning sunlight is supposed to be one of the best sources of vitamin D. Vitamin D is good for calcium absorption and hence, helps maintain healthy bones and teeth.

Vitamin E: Like other vitamins, Vitamin E too performs a protective function by protecting human body cells. It is also a very good antioxidant and helps improve blood circulation. Vitamin E is most commonly found in nuts like almonds and peanuts.

Vitamin K: Vitamin K is one of the most crucial vitamins as it helps seal the wounds by forming blood clots where the injury has occurred. Vitamin K is found in leafy vegetables and eggs.

Essential Minerals

Here is some information on the minerals which are essential to the human body and their functions.

Iron: Undoubtedly, one of the most important minerals for the human body is iron. Iron helps in the formation of red blood cells and aids transportation of oxygen in the blood. It also supposedly helps improve concentration. Iron is commonly found in eggs, meat and leafy vegetables.

Calcium: The next, most important mineral in the body is calcium. As we know calcium is a major component in teeth and bones. Hence calcium is required for the growth and maintenance of bones and teeth. Calcium is abundantly found in milk.

Potassium: Another essential mineral required to maintain the proper functioning of the body is potassium. Potassium is a key mineral required to maintain normal pH levels and water levels. Potassium also helps facilitate normal muscle growth and a healthy nervous system. Potassium is most commonly found in bananas and potatoes.

Zinc: The next essential mineral is zinc. Zinc helps improve the immune system of the body and improves fertility. Zinc is commonly found in leafy vegetables, lima beans and legumes.

Iodine: Iodine helps the thyroid perform its daily functions properly. Iodine is found in iodized salt and leafy vegetables.

Other essential minerals which the body requires in traces includes chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum and selenium.

Read on to know about vitamins and minerals and their roles.

So these were the essential vitamins and minerals for the body. As you can see, vitamins and minerals are very important for the body as they help perform several important functions related to maintenance and growth of the body. Hence they should be consumed daily.

What is a mineral? To qualify for being called a mineral, a substance has to be in a solid state of matter and also have a crystalline atomic or molecular structure. It should also be a homogeneous, naturally occurring substance with a clearly defined chemical composition. In 1965, the International Mineralogical Association adopted a standard definition for minerals as ‘an element or chemical compound that is normally crystalline and that has been formed as a result of geological processes‘. Many minerals are used for extracting useful metals from them and hence the study of different types of minerals becomes utterly important.

There are an overwhelming number of known minerals. Currently, the International Mineralogical Association lists more than 4,000 minerals, with new minerals still being discovered. Only 100 of these are commonly found, about 50 are found occasionally, while rest of these minerals are very rarely encountered. To ease up the study of types of minerals and their uses, there are two broad categories in which minerals are divided into. Let us take a good look at this classification.

Mineral Classification

Minerals are broadly classified in to two categories: Silicate and non-Silicate minerals.

Silicate Minerals
The most commonly found group of mineral in the Earth’s crust is the silicate group. Almost all silicate minerals have silicon and oxygen as their primary components. Most silicate minerals are formed by the cooling of molten rocks. As the molten rocks come closer to the surface inside the Earth’s crust, they start cooling very fast and combine with the most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, silicon. Silicate minerals constitute approximately 90% of the Earth’s crust. Fayalite (Fe2SiO4)Zircon (ZrSiO4), Enstatite (MgSiO3), Ferrosilite (FeSiO3) are some examples of sulphate minerals.

Non-Silicate Minerals
There is a complete range of non-silicate minerals. Some of these minerals are formed when there is cooling of magma, while some others are formed when water in them evaporates, or due to minerals decomposition. The non-silicates can be further classified in to different groups which are: elements, oxides, carbonates, sulphates, and many more which are not commonly found naturally. Most of these groups have their own sub-categories. But, let us discuss these groups first:
Elements: Many pure elements are found in the form of minerals in ores or mines. For example, uncombined carbon is often found in its pure state in the form of graphite or more rarely as diamond. Gold, silver and sulfur are other elements which are also found in its pure state. Even though these are pure elements they qualify to be known as minerals, but no chemical process is required on them further.Oxides: When an ore is found in which one or more elements are combined with oxygen, it is an oxide mineral. These may have chemical formulas of type XO (MgO, ZnO, CuO, etc.), X2O (Cu2O), X2O3 (Al2O3, Fe2O3), XO2 (MnO2, SnO2) and XY2O4 (MgAl2O4, FeCr2O4). The oxide minerals, are mostly of metallic elements. Example: hematite, magnetite, cuprite. Silicates and oxides are the most common types of minerals in volcanoes, especially after an eruption.Carbonates: The carbonate type of minerals are formed when a single carbonate ion (CO32-) reacts with a metal ion of complementing polarity. Example: siderite (FeCO3), smithsonite (ZnCO3), calcite (CaCO3). Carbonate minerals are used in making cement and other bonding material.Sulphates: The mineral class which includes the sulfate ion (SO42-) within its molecular structure, is categorized as sulphate mineral. Minerals like Gypsum (CaSO4?2H2O) and Barite (BaSO4) are examples of sulphate minerals.Organic Minerals: This class of minerals include biogenic substances, genesis or origin of which can be attributed to a geological processes. Organic minerals include all types of oxalates, mellitates, citrates, cyanates, acetates, formates, hydrocarbons, etc. Example of organic mineral includes whewellite, moolooite, mellite, fichtelite, carpathite, evenkite and abelsonite.Apart from these these are many more non-silicate minerals like nitrates, sulphides, halides, phosphates, etc. but most of the 4,000 odd listed minerals are grouped in the above categories. Make sure you do not confuse between types of minerals and rocks. A rock is a combination of a number of minerals which may also include organic remains and mineraloids i.e. non-crystalline minerals.

That concludes an overview of various types of minerals found on this planet. Hope, this write up has succeeded in reiterating how important minerals and their type are for the sustenance of human kind on this planet.

Different types of vitamins and minerals enable healthy body function. They help in repairing damaged cells and tissues, in the production of important cells, in healthy brain function, and a host of other functions required for normal health and well-being. While vitamins are organic, minerals are inorganic. This means, vitamins are made by plants and animals, while minerals are found int the soil and water, which are then absorbed by plants and animals. Given below is a vitamins and minerals chart for kids and adults, which will explain in detail the different vitamins and minerals required for your health.

Vitamins and Minerals Chart

The vitamins and minerals chart given here, not only enlists the important vitamins and minerals required for your overall well-being, but also describes their functions, their sources, and the recommended daily intake for men, women, and kids. The references for the units are:mg = milligramsmcg = microgramsIU = International UnitsVitamins Chart

VitaminsHealth BenefitsVitamin SourceRecommended Daily IntakeVitamin AUseful for healthy eyes. Also benefits hair and skin. Strengthens the immune system. Helps in maintaining mucous membranes.Carrots, Pumpkin, Spinach, Chillies, Sweet Potato, Mangoes, Dairy, LiverMen: 750 mg
Women: 750 mg
Kids: 1000 IU (2 – 3 yrs) to 2000 IU (9 – 13 yrs)Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)Helps the body make optimum use of carbohydrates. Aids proper heart function, the nervous system, and enables good coordination of muscles.Whole Grain Products, Sunflower Seeds, Oatmeal, Pine Nuts, Other Nuts, Lean Pork and other Meat forms, Wheat GermMen: 1.18 mg
Women:0.85 mg
Kids: 500 mcg (1 – 3 yrs) to 900 mcg (9 – 13 yrs)Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)Regulates metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Also beneficial for eyes, and healthy growth of hair, nails and skin.Fortified Breakfast Cereals, Eggs, Milk, AlmondsMen: 1.75 mg
Women: 1.27 mg
Kids: 0.5 mg (1 – 3 yrs) to 0.9 mg (9 – 13 yrs)Vitamin B3 (Niacin)Regulates metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Aids normal brain function and maintains healthy nervous system.Beef, Chicken, Tuna, Liver, Peanut Butter, Barley, Rice Bran, Wheat Bran, RiceMen: 19.3 mg
Women: 14.0 mg
Kids: 15.0 mgVitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)Regulates metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, and makes fatty acids and cholesterol.Egg Yolk, Legumes, Brewer’s Yeast, Whole Grains, Organ MeatsMen: 2.5 mg
Women: 2.5 mg
Kids: 2 – 4 mgVitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)Regulates the metabolism of amino acids and carbohydrates. Aids healthy nervous system function, and in the production of red blood cells.Bananas, Brewer’s Yeast, Wheat Bran, Mackerel, Walnuts, Brown Rice, Sunflower Seeds, Liver, Salmon, Tuna, MeatMen: 1.8 mg
Women: 1.5 mg
Kids: 0.6 mg – 0.13 mgVitamin B12 (Cobalamin)Essential for DNA synthesis. Aids healthy nervous system function, and helps in production of red blood cells.Mussels, Oyster, Oily Fish, Crab, Beef, Liver, Offal, EggMen: 2 mcg
Women: 2 mcg
Kids: 0.9 mg – 2.4 mcgFolateCombined with vitamin B12, it protects and develops the nervous system, and helps in the production of RNA and DNA. It produces red blood cells for babies in the uterus.Lentils, Chickpeas, Kidney Beans, Green Leafy Vegetables, Nuts, Oat Bran, Liver, Brewer’s YeastMen: 400 mcg
Women: 400 mcg
Kids: 150 mcg – 300 mcgVitamin CHelps in collagen production. Also important for healthy gums, bones, cartilage and blood vessels. Strengthens immune system, aids in tissue repair, and in absorbing iron for the body.Citrus Fruits, Guava, Papaya, Kiwi, Green Leafy Vegetables, Broccoli, Capsicum, Red ChilliesMen: 40 mg
Women: 30 mg
Kids: 15 mg – 45 mgVitamin DEssential to absorb calcium and phosphorus to promote healthy bones and teeth.Dairy, Herrings, Tuna, Fish Oils, Egg Yolk, Sunflower Seeds, Sardines, SunlightMen: 5 mg
Women: 5 mg
Kids: 5 mgVitamin EContains antioxidant properties. Helps in healing of the skin and prevents scarring. It keeps the red blood cells healthy, and protects cell membranes.Safflower Oil, Peanut Oil, Peanut Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sunflower Seeds, Almonds, Olive OilMen: 10 mg
Women: 10 mg
Kids: 6 mg – 11 mgVitamin KEnables blood clotting in case of excessive bleeding.Wheat Bran, Milk, Liver, Green Leafy VegetablesMen: 80 mcg
Women: 80 mcg
Kids: 30 mcg – 40 mcg
Vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K are fat-soluble vitamins (they dissolve in fat and can be stored in the body), while vitamins B and vitamin C are water soluble (any excess that is not used by the body is excreted in the process of urination).

Minerals Chart

MineralsHealth BenefitsMineral SourceRecommended Daily IntakeCalciumImportant for strong bones and teeth. Helps in blood clotting, regulating blood pressure and enzyme production.Dairy, Tofu, Fortified Soy Milk, Sardines consumed with BonesMen: 800 – 1000 mg
Women: 800 – 1000 mg
Kids: 500 mg (1 – 3 yrs) – 1300 mg (9 – 13 yrs)IronImportant component of hemoglobin, enabling red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.Fortified Cereals, Spinach and other Green Leafy Vegetables, Red Meat, Dried FruitsMen: 6 mg
Women: 6 mg
Kids: 7 mg – 15mgMagnesiumWorks with sodium and phosphorus to enable healthy muscle and nerve function. Regulates calcium levels in the body, and helps it to maintain the bone structure. Yogurt, Eggs, Artichoke, Okra, Dates, Rolled Oats, Wheat Germ, Nuts, Seeds, Wheat BranMen: 2.0 – 5.0 mg
Women: 2.0 – 5.0 mg
Kids: 1.0 – 3.0 mgPotassiumIn combination with sodium, regulates the fluid levels in the body, blood pressure, heartbeat and nerve impulses.Spinach, Potato, Sweet Potato, Mango, Grapes, Banana, Litchi, Watermelon, Dates, Grapefruit, Bamboo Shoots, French Beans, Pumpkin, Beef, Milk, Pork, Salmon, Chicken, Sardines, YogurtMen: 2000 mg
Women: 2000 mg
Kids: 3000 mg (1 – 3 yrs) – 4500 mg (9 – 13 yrs)SodiumAlong with Potassium, regulates fluid and alkali levels in the body. Also enables healthy nerve and muscle function.Table Salt, Seafood, Cheese, Eggs, Beetroot, Artichokes, Beef, Yogurt, Soy MilkMen: 500 mg
Women: 500 mg
Kids/Infants: 120 mgPhosphorusHelps in teeth and bone building and maintenance. Also enables healthy muscle and nerve function, and allows for energy release.Dairy, Fish, Meat, Nuts, Seeds, Wheat BranMen: 1200 mg
Women: 800 – 1200 mgZincStrengthens immunity and the healing process. Useful for healthy skin, nails, eyes, growth and sexual development, DNA and protein synthesis, and enzyme activity.Avocado, Dates, Pomegranate, Raspberries, Asparagus, Corn, Peas, Potatoes, Okra, Lima Beans, Cashews, Oats, Rye, Wheat, Beef, Lamb, Turkey, PorkMen: 15 mg
Women: 12 mg
Kids: 10 – 15 mgCopperEssential for healthy function of red blood cells and brain. Allows connective tissue synthesis.Seafood, Sesame Seeds, Liver, Nuts Men:1.5 – 3.0 mg
Women: 1.5 – 3.0 mg
Kids: 0.5 – 1.0 mgIodineImportant for thyroid hormone regulation. Promotes growth and protein synthesis.Seafood, Iodized SaltMen: 150 mcg
Women: 150 mcg
Kids: 70 – 150 mcg
While calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and sodium are the major minerals required, the remaining minerals such as zinc, copper, iodine and phosphorus are known as trace minerals, required in lesser amounts on a daily basis. Nevertheless, these are extremely important.

You may also take a look at:Vitamins and Minerals and Their RolesFacts About Vitamins and MineralsThis vitamins and minerals chart has clearly stated the necessity of these nutrients for a healthy life. Though several plants and animals are abundant in these nutrients, sometimes it is essential to take nutritional supplements to meet the daily requirements. However, do so only under the guidance of a physician, as an overdose of any nutrient can be as dangerous as the deficiency. Include these vitamins and minerals, as a part of a balanced diet, combined with proper exercise, and you will be able to reap all their benefits in a healthy manner.

We often hear how the fruits and vegetables are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals required by the body. The sound of mineral brings the picture of various minerals present in the earth’s crust. Imagine eating those minerals! Importance of minerals in the body lies in the fact that they contribute to the normal functioning and growth of the human body and since it cannot be produced by the body, we need to constantly furnish the body with a fresh supply of 15-16 minerals on a daily basis. Approximately, 4% of the body’s mass comprises minerals. Read more on essential vitamins and minerals.

Minerals in the Body

Minerals in the body can be categorized as major minerals and trace minerals. Let’s have a detailed look at them.

Macro or Major Minerals: These are those minerals required in large amounts in the body that is in amounts of 100 milligram or more every day. The different macro minerals required in the body are calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chlorine and sulfur.

Trace Minerals: These minerals are required in amounts less than 100 mg each day and include the minerals like iron, iodine, zinc, fluoride, selenium, copper, chromium, manganese and molybdenum. Read more on why do we need vitamins and minerals.

Benefits of Minerals in the Body

These 16 minerals in the body play different roles in assisting the body with its functioning, growth and development. Let’s have a look at some of these minerals and understand the overall function of minerals in the body.

Calcium: Over 1000 mg of calcium intake is required on a daily basis, as this calcium is used up to strengthen bones and teeth. It is also needed for muscle and nerve functions. Deficiency of calcium can conduce to weakening of bones, leading to a painful health condition called osteoporosis. The bones become brittle and snap easily. Tooth loss, muscle cramps, etc. are also seen. This calcium can be obtained in large amounts in dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese and also in dark green leafy vegetables.

Phosphorus: Phosphorus along with calcium plays a crucial role in building the structure of bones and teeth. Living cells utilize phosphate to transport cellular energy via adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and help in several other bodily processes. This phosphorus is available in protein rich foods like meat and dairy products.

Magnesium: This mineral magnesium is available in legumes, green vegetables, whole grains and nuts. It is essential for Calcium and Vitamin C metabolism and also plays an important role in regulating neuromuscular activity of the heart.

Sodium: Found in common salt, processed foods, seafood, milk and milk products, sodium is a mineral responsible for the regulation of body fluid volume, acid-base and concentration. A deficiency of sodium is not seen in people, instead people are found to have excess of sodium content in the body, thereby conducing to high blood pressure.

Potassium: Found in bananas, avocados, celery and turnips and several other fruits and vegetables, this mineral is essential for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the cells of the body. It also assists in muscle contraction and sending nerve impulses.

Chlorine: An essential component of digestive juices, chlorine is a mineral that plays an important role in maintenance of the body’s acid-base and fluid balance. Chlorine is obtained from sodium chloride or common salt ingested. It is also found in tomatoes, celery, olives, seaweed, etc.

Sulfur: Good sources of sulfur are eggs, lean beef, clams, fish, dairy products, onions, wheat germ, garlic, cabbage, etc. This sulfur is required by the body for amino acid building. The proteins, enzymes and polypeptides that contain amino acids contain sulfur, thus, sulfur forms an essential part of all living cells. Usually we do not find cases with sulfur deficiency as it is quite commonly available in the food we consume.

Iron: The red blood cells in the blood contain hemoglobin formed by protein and iron. This hemoglobin is responsible for transport of oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without iron, hemoglobin will not be formed and oxygen transport system will be in jeopardy.

Zinc: Found in liver, eggs, seafood and meat, zinc is a mineral playing important roles in growth and sexual maturation, wound healing and taste sensation. It is also seen to increase the immune system response in the body. It helps the body fight infections.

Read more on:Vitamins and Minerals ChartFacts About Vitamins and MineralsThese minerals in the body need to be furnished on a timely basis. Excess mineral will be eliminated by the kidneys via urine, thus, one needs to make sure the body gets enough mineral intake on a timely basis. Balance is the key! Deficiency will cause harm and excess will also prove detrimental. Thus, do not let the balance tip!

Graphite is an allotrope of the chemical element carbon and is denoted by the symbol ‘C’. Natural graphite occurs in three distinct forms in nature – crystalline graphite, amorphous graphite and lump graphite. The major graphite exporting countries are China, India, Brazil, North Korea and Canada.

Lump graphite, also called vein graphite, is found all over the world, but commercially mined only in Sri Lanka. Graphite is grayish black to steel gray in color and can mark impressions on the substrate. Because of this marking property possessed by graphite, it is used in the manufacture of pencils, and gets its name from the Greek word ‘graphein’, which means ‘to write’. Graphite properties makes it a unique chemical substance. Let us have a look at the properties of graphite.

Physical Properties of Graphite

Following are some graphite properties based on its structure and occurrence in nature.

Physical State
The mineral graphite is steel gray to black in color and is odorless. It is opaque and has a sub metallic luster. Graphite is very soft and has a greasy texture. It can be broken easily and leaves a black streak on the hand when touched. Although graphite is soft and flexible, it is not elastic in nature.

Structure
Graphite is crystalline in nature, however, perfect crystals of graphite are rarely found. The carbon atoms in graphite are arranged in a hexagonal manner in a planar condensed ring system. This gives the graphite crystals, a hexagonal shape. Different layers of graphite are stacked together and held by weak covalent forces, to form a giant covalent structure.

Melting Point
Graphite has a high melting point above 3000?, like that of diamond, the other allotrope of carbon. Hence, it is stable over a wide range of temperatures.

Density
As there is a lot of vacant space between the graphite sheets, held by the weak covalent bonds, the density of graphite is 2.09 to 2.33 g/cc, which is lower than that of diamond. The measured specific gravity of graphite is approximately 2.26 g/cc, however, it depends upon the purity of graphite. Graphite with a higher ash content shows a specific gravity higher than 2.26, while natural graphite has a lower specific gravity or density due to the trapped porosity.

Solubility
Graphite is insoluble in water as well as other organic solvents. There are no attractive forces that occur between the solvent molecules and the carbons atoms in graphite and so it fails to dissolve in any of the organic solvents.

Electrical Conductivity
There is vast delocalization of electrons within the carbon layers of graphite. The delocalized electrons are free to move and are able to conduct electricity, thus making graphite a good conductor of electricity.

Chemical Properties of Graphite

Graphite is chemically inert to almost all chemicals. It burns completely, when heated in oxygen to form carbon dioxide. However, it fails to burn in air, even if it is heated to high temperatures. When heated in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid and potassium dichromate, graphite gets oxidized to carbon dioxide. Due to its chemical inertness and stability at high temperatures, it is widely used as a refractory material.

Uses of GraphiteManufacture of ‘lead’ used in pencilsRefractoriesSteel makingLubricantMaking electrodesManufacture of polishes and paintsMolds in foundryThis was all about graphite properties and its uses. The unique graphite properties are responsible for its use in a variety of applications. Hope you found this information helpful!

Coal, diamond and graphite are the three allotropic forms in which carbon is found in nature. Graphite crystallizes in a platy form in a hexagonal arrangement. It is metamorphic in nature and depending on where it is found, it is rated into three forms – flake, crystalline and amorphous. Flake is found as vein deposits in metamorphosed rocks, amorphous is formed in metamorphosed beds of coal and crystalline is available in veins filled with fissure.

Graphite has a blackish to grayish color and due to its greasiness and softness, it leaves a black mark when touched by hand. It is an excellent conductor of electricity and heat. Graphite can withstand extremely high temperatures and is not affected by majority of reagents and acids. This property gives graphite uses which are unique and peculiar.

Graphite is found all over the world in its natural form and in high quantity as well. It has been in use since ancient days and has a wide range of applications in the modern age too. South Korea is said to be the largest producer of graphite in the world and Austria comes a close second. To understand what is graphite used for, read further.

Uses of Graphite

Graphite uses depend mainly upon its type – amorphous, lumpy or flake. The flake graphite is known to show very low resistance to electrical conductivity. More the flaky particles, lesser the resistance and bulk density. This particular characteristic of flake graphite makes it useful in manufacturing of carbon electrodes, brushes and plates needed in dry cell batteries and the electrical industry. These days, amorphous or crystalline graphite has replaced flaky graphite in the production of brushes and plates.

Graphite crucibles are used for melting aluminum, brass and other non-ferrous metals. These crucibles are produced by mixing graphite, sand and clay together and pressing it on the article at a high temperature. Flake and crystalline forms of graphite are the most used in manufacturing of crucibles.

High grade graphite in amorphous and crystalline form, having the ability to remain suspended in oil, is used in the manufacturing of lubricants. Irrespective of the working condition, graphite shows very low friction which is why it is used in lubricants. It keeps the moving surface cool and minimizes the friction.

Another one of the flake graphite uses is that it is used in foundry-facing to disallow molding sands from sticking to cast articles.

In an atomic reactor, bricks of graphite are used as moderators. The graphite used in the nuclear field has to be low in the ability to absorb neutron and also needs to be of standard density and orientation. Of late, graphite uses in this field have expanded as it has started being used in blast furnace operations as well.

One of the common uses of graphite is in manufacturing of pencils and paints. In production of paints, powdered form of lump graphite is used and since graphite is a natural water repellent, it is the best choice for giving a protective coating on wood.

Graphite in amorphous form is used in the manufacturing of lead used in pencils. Amorphous graphite is preferred as it leaves a dark streak on paper. More fine the powder, darker the smear. In case the graphite is highly flaky, the smear looses its darkness.

In China, graphite is used in the manufacturing of brake linings. Since car production is China is forever on the rise, so is the demand for graphite.

Graphite is also used for making printing electrotypes. A thin layer of powdered graphite is applied on the wax impressions made, on which copper is deposited. The role of the thin layer of graphite is to provide negative electrical connection so that the process of electrolysis goes on smoothly, depositing copper on it.

Read more on:Chemical ElementsCarbon: The ElementUses of CarbonConsidering the numerous graphite uses, its unique properties and the fact that graphite is available in abundance all over the world, its utility will only grow. There are chances of graphite being used in the production of molds and also being used in manufacturing machinery parts.

“The rocks of the original soil, he wrote, are arranged in perpendicular layers or inclined towards the horizon. They are composed of quartz, granite, shale, slate and talcose.” – Father of modern chemistry and French polymath, Antoine Lavoisier.

Quartz is, as a matter of fact, the second most widely available mineral on the continental crust of the earth, covering almost 1/8th of it, beaten only by feldspar. Even though the purest form of quartz is essentially colorless, either transparent or slightly clouded, there are innumerable varieties of quartz that are diversely hued and can be found all over the world, no matter what the temperature conditions of a place are. Quartz happens to be present in all three types of rocks – igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Agate, amethyst, aventurine, carnelian, chalcedony, citrine, drusy quartz, heliotrope, jasper, milk quartz, onyx, prasiolite, rock crystal, rose quartz, rutilated quartz, smoky quartz, tiger’s eye and many others quartz varieties, some of which are extremely celebrated and sought after semi precious stones. Quartz is used for a number purposes on a daily basis, worldwide and the basic reason behind that is, quartz has a few extremely essential attributes due to which quartz uses are multiplying by the day.

Characteristics of QuartzHardness: Quartz is one of the hardest minerals known to man, scoring a very high 7 on Mohs scale (the highest being diamond with a score of 10). This makes it extremely resistive to any form of either physical or chemical corrosion.Abrasion-Resistance: Owing to its natural hardness, quartz happens to be the 4th most scratchproof mineral on earth, humbled only by diamond, sapphire and topaz.Heat resistance and electrical activeness: As I pointed out earlier, quartz is found all over the globe in spite of varied temperature conditions. This makes it a mineral which can withstand extremely high temperature. It is also a fantastic isolator in which the anisotropic crystals contained in quartz show linear dimension alterations in tandem with the alteration of electric field as applied to certain faces of quartz. These qualities make quartz an extremely important crystal that can serve several electronic purposes, even though it is not a very good conductor itself.Chemical Neutrality: Quartz exhibits a maximum amount of chemical inactivity when in contact with most known chemicals to man. It would take a lot to change or alter the chemical composition of quartz.Visual Attractiveness: Most forms of quartz are imbued with beautiful colors and happen to display some very exclusive and exquisite patterns. It is therefore that variant quartz varieties are employed to make jewelry as well as other artifacts such as statuettes, vases and other encrusted trinkets. Common Uses of Quartz

Evidently, it is the quartz characteristics determine the variant quartz uses. Let us see some the most common uses of quartz which aren’t purely ornamental.Owing to its hardness and corrosion resistance, quartz is often used to make abrasive items such as sandpaper and other such abrading articles. Other than that quartz is used for the manufacture of grinding media and the process of sandblasting.Whetstones or smooth stones for sharpening edged tools or knives can be made from quartz given their hardness. Even hones are made from quartz which in turn are used to sharpen razors. Also, refractory bricks are made of quartz due to the sheer strength of the mineral.Quartz is a very popular material which is used for kitchen countertops, given that it is not extremely porous and so food particles and fluids do not get trapped in it. Subsequently, the growth of germs is harnessed by quartz. Also, quartz is available in myriad colors and is majorly stain resistant. So, in a battle between quartz vs. granite countertops the former wins hands down. Also, for very similar reasons, quartz can be and is widely used in bathrooms as well.Quartz is used to make crucibles, which are basically vessels that do not melt easily and are employed for performing for high temperature chemical reactions. It also does not actively react with chemicals or yield to their corrosive effects.Quartz can channelize ultra violet light and therefore is used for manufacturing UV prisms and lenses.Quartz is used in quartz wristwatches, clocks, computers, mobile phones, radios, television receivers and navigational instruments that function with the help of a quartz oscillator. This quartz oscillator is nothing but an electrical circuit that has a crystal displaying piezoelectric properties. This means that under a particular amount of mechanical stress the crystal can whip up a temporary electrical signal that has a very steady and rhythmic frequency by vibrating incessantly. Quartz is one such crystal that generates piezoelectricity and is thus used to not only keep a tab on time but also for stabilizing radio frequencies.Quartz is used for making glasses of all kinds including fiber glass and container glass. Sometimes, both glass and quartz is commingled to produce lenses and other glass products that exhibit the qualities of both.Silica based quartz sand is often used as foundry sand which is blended with cohesive agents such as clay and oil, among others, and then used for the purpose of molding and casting. Also, any crude edges on metals after they have been cast, cut or drilled is also burred or removed with the help of microcrystalline quartz.Quartz sand is also added to molten metals so that it bonds with impurities which then can be easily removed.Quartz sand is also used in beaches, baseball arenas, golf courses, volleyball courts as well as children’s sand boxes and also employed for traction purposed in rail tracks and mines.Making for fantastic filter media, once they have been screened and washed, quartz sand grains are also expended as effective fillers in the paint, putty and rubber industries.Quartz crystal has a metaphysical and spiritual healing properties which helps a person to de-clutter. When placed on the the particular chakra that is choked up by negative elements. Quartz can help ventilate negative energies and restore positive vibrations in a person’s mental and physical space so as to allow the person to think clearly and optimistically. It is believed by some healers that the rose quartz can help an individual to reconnect with one’s basic self. A verve enhancer, it is believed to fortify teeth and bones, detoxify the body and boost sleight.So, those were some of the innumerable quartz uses. For a common man, quartz jewelry and wrist watches remain is something that is used on a daily basis. Human beings have been using quartz for a long time now for various purposes, be it for making phonograph pickups or for hardstone carvings. With the number of constructive properties that this mineral has and its sheer availability to a large number of people on earth, one doesn’t have to guess that the uses of quartz is on the rise. Its just a matter of time before all the dynamics of this crystal is discovered, just like Nicolas Steno had suddenly discovered that even the prism fronts of the most deformed crystal formed a precise 60? angle, that opened up a whole new door in the field of crystallography.

Calcite word comes is derived from the Latin word calx and the Greek word chalix, that meas lime. Calcite mineral is commonly found in limestone and marble. Calcite is a colorless or white mineral when pure. But, due to the impurities present in it, this mineral can be found in many colors like red, yellow, green, honey, pink, lavender, black, brown or blue. This mineral can appear transparent, translucent or opaque. Calcite mineral can have luster that can be vitreous to dull, and many crystals especially the colorless ones are vitreous, while the fine grained mostly are seen dull. Calcite can be scratched readily by a knife blade or with a geologic pick. These were the physical properties of the calcite. But, most calcite uses can be attributed to its distinguishing properties like it has a good hardness level, is readily dissolvable in certain materials, and has healing properties.

What Are the Uses of Calcite?

Uses of Calcite in Construction Industry
Construction industry is the primary consumer of calcite in the form of limestone and marble. Such rocks have been used as dimension stones for making mortar for thousands of years. Limestone blocks were used for making primary construction material while making the pyramids. Now, rough and polished limestone and marble is used for making prestige construction monuments. For making modern buildings, calcite in the form of limestone and marble is used for producing cement and concrete. Such materials are easy to mix, and transport and used to make a slurry mixture that hardens fasts, and is very durable.

Marble is an attractive construction material, that has been used to make many monuments and sculptures throughout the history. The lack of significant porosity of marble, allows it to stand up well to extreme temperatures and due to its low hardness level, one can easily carve it. Marble has been used to make many small figurines, especially the Mexican onyx variety and marble is also used to make gigantic pyramids. Today, it is used to make statues, benches, mantles and stairways, etc.

Calcite for Making Medicines
Calcite or calcium carbonate which is derived from very pure marbles or limestones is also used for making medicines. This is one of the common uses of calcite. Calcite has acid neutralizing property. Hence, when it is mixed with sugar and flavoring, the chewable tablets of calcite help in neutralizing the stomach acids. Such medicines are known as antacids, that help greatly to treat stomach problems an other ailments.

Calcite Used for Spiritual Growth
Another known use of calcite is the for spiritual growth. Calcite crystal healing stones are used for energy healing and spiritual work as a cleansing and energizing healing stone. Many professional healers, use these stones for calming, spiritual connection created by the calcite gemstones. The crystal healing stones of calcite come in many colors like green, peach, blue and some are clear glassy.

Other Uses of Calcite
Pulverized marble or limestone is used as a dietary supplement that is added to animal feed. Chickens which produce eggs and cattle that produce milk need a calcium rich diet, hence, small amounts of calcite is added to their feed, to increase the calcium intake. Pulverized limestone is used as mine safety dust, this is nonflammable substance that is sprayed onto the walls and roofs of underground coal mines, so that the amount of coal dust, which can increase explosion hazard sticking to the walls is less. The white color also helps in illumination inside a mine.

This was all about calcite uses. Due to the amazing properties and the different varieties of calcite, one can find it being used for animals as a dietary supplement to healing stomach ailments in human beings.