The word ore is derived from Latin, which means mine, it is a natural resource extracted from the subsoil that can have organic and inorganic origins, it is of great value to humanity, since they are transformed into instruments and objects useful to man.
Ores are fundamental for all countries, considering that they favor industrial-economic development, as raw materials extracted from nature are transformed into goods (cars, household appliances, machines and many others).
In the last two centuries, the extraction of mineral resources has become more intense, removing increasingly larger volumes from nature. The concern is that most of these resources are non-renewable, that is, they are not replenished by nature), which implies a depletion of certain minerals. If the rate of extraction continues as it is, humanity will certainly see some minerals become extinct. Based on existing reserves today, certain mineral resources already have a possible date for exhaustion, among them we can mention gold, tin and nickel.
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Gold is a type of metallic ore of great economic value that, after its extraction, is processed and becomes raw material used in the manufacture of personal items, such as jewelry and watches. This valuable resource serves as a source of wealth reserves for several countries. However, estimates reveal that gold reserves should end around 2020.
Tin is extracted from an ore called cassiterite, which is widely used in the construction of statues and medals, as well as being used to coat cans of preserves and oil, it is also used in the manufacture of copper. Despite its great relevance, especially for industries, estimates are that this material will run out around the year 2020.
Nickel is highly valued in the industrial sector, as it is very resistant to corrosive processes. It is used to make coins, to coat other metals (it is common in bathroom and kitchen taps). The expected date for the end of nickel reserves on the planet is around 2050. These are some examples, but there are others not mentioned, such as oil, which many scientists claim will end around 2070.
By Eduardo de Freitas
Graduated in Geography