Q1. [3] medium initial-understanding
[short_answer] Bauxite is an important non-ferrous mineral found in India. Explain how bauxite deposits are formed. Why is aluminium, extracted from bauxite, considered a versatile metal? Give any two reasons.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 13:31 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Formation of Bauxite: Bauxite deposits are formed by the decomposition of a wide variety of rocks rich in aluminium silicates. The soluble constituents are removed, leaving behind a residual mass of weathered material containing the ore.
Why Aluminium is a Versatile Metal:
- It combines the strength of metals such as iron with extreme lightness.
- It possesses good conductivity and great malleability, making it useful across electrical, engineering and other industries.
Source: Minerals and Energy Resources, Non-Ferrous Minerals (Bauxite) section
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Explanation
- The question has two parts — formation (1 mark) and two reasons for versatility (2 marks). Keep the balance accordingly.
- Use textbook language for formation: "decomposition of rocks rich in aluminium silicates" and "residual mass of weathered material" — examiners look for these exact phrases.
- For versatility, the text gives three properties: strength, lightness, conductivity, malleability. Pick any two distinct points and state them clearly. Avoid vague statements like "it is useful" without reason.