The main sources of inorganic elements in nature are natural materials that contain metals and nonmetals in various forms. Simply put, these are the places we get elements from. The major sources are:
1. Minerals and Ores
- Most inorganic elements come from minerals, which are naturally occurring solid substances.
- Ores are minerals that contain metals in high enough concentrations to be extracted economically.
- Example: Hematite (Fe₂O₃) → Iron
- Example: Bauxite (Al₂O₃·2H₂O) → Aluminum
2. Earth’s Crust
- Many elements are found in the earth’s crust as part of rocks.
- Silicon, aluminum, calcium, sodium, potassium, etc., are abundant.
- They may occur as oxides, silicates, or carbonates.
3. Atmosphere
- Some elements are present in gases in the atmosphere.
- Example: Nitrogen (N₂), Oxygen (O₂), Argon (Ar), Carbon (as CO₂)
4. Oceans and Water Bodies
- Many elements are dissolved in seawater and freshwater.
- Example: Sodium (Na⁺), Magnesium (Mg²⁺), Calcium (Ca²⁺), Chlorine (Cl⁻)
5. Biological Sources (Indirect)
- Plants, animals, and microorganisms accumulate elements from soil and water.
- Example: Calcium in bones, Iron in hemoglobin
In short:
- Rocks and minerals → main source of metals
- Atmosphere → main source of gases
- Water → dissolved elements
- Living things → store elements