Question

X is a mineral that is estimated to have more ocean reserves than land reserves. X is found on the ocean floors as nodules. Which of the following are valid facts about X?

• A. X is sought in the manufacturing of bleaching powders.
• B. X has strength comparable to iron but is also super light and is known for its conductivity.
• C. X is used to smelt iron in furnaces.
• D. X improves corrosion resistance in magnesium alloys.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (D)

X improves corrosion resistance in magnesium alloys.

X is manganese. Manganese is know for its versatility. Amongst the many uses of manganese, some of them are as follows:

• Manganese steel is used for rugged service. It contains 11–14 percent manganese. It is endowed with qualities like hardness, wear-resistance, and self-renewing surface, and a tough unbreakable core.
• Practically all commercial alloys of aluminum and magnesium contain some amount of manganese to improve their resistance against corrosion.
• It is also extensively sought in manufacturing bleaching powder, insecticides, and paints.

Apart from land Manganese can also be found in large areas of the ocean floor. These occurrences are called Manganese nodules. The amount of manganese in the nodules is estimated to be much more than that in land reserves.