Non-metals are minerals which, as a rule, do not serve as a raw material for the extraction of metal. Some of the uses of non-metals are listed below.
- Nitrogen is used in the manufacture of fertilizers.
- Sulphur is used for the vulcanization of rubber. It is used in the preparation of sulfur drugs and ointments. It is an important constituent of gunpowder.
- Phosphorus is used in the match industry and in the manufacture of fireworks.
- Graphite is used for making electrodes and crucibles for laboratory use. It is used as a lubricant in machinery and for making fuel rods in nuclear reactors.
