Q. With reference to ‘Critical Minerals’ consider the following statements::
1.They are only non-metallic elements.
2.Rare earth elements are critical minerals which are used for making magnets and silicon.
3.India is the second-largest producer of cobalt and is the fourth-largest producer of rare earth minerals in the world.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 only

[C] 2 and 3 only

[D] 3 only

Answer: B
Notes:

Explanation –

Statement 1 and 3 are incorrect. A critical mineral is a metallic or non-metallic element that has two characteristics: It is essential for the functioning of modern technologies, economies or national security and there is a risk that its supply chains could be disrupted. Australia is the second-largest producer of cobalt and is the fourth-largest producer of rare earth minerals in the world.

Statement 2 is correct. Rare earth elements are critical minerals which are used for making magnets and silicon.

Source: ForumIAS