Monazite is a rare earth mineral. In relation to this, consider the following statements:
1. It is found in nature with heavy minerals like ilmenite, rutile, and zircon in placer deposits
2. It is a “prescribed substance” under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962.
3. Indian Rare Earth Limited (IREL) is the sole entity processing monazite to produce Rare Earth compounds.
How many of the above statements are not correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Explanation Statement 1 is correct : Monazite is considered a "prescribed substance" under the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, meaning its extraction, possession, and use are strictly regulated by the Indian government due to its content of thorium, a radioactive element with potential nuclear applications; only designated entities like the Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) are permitted to handle it.
Statement 2 is correct : The mineral monazite is a prescribed substance as per the Notification under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. AMD has been carrying out its resource evaluation for over six decades. It occurs in association with other heavy minerals, such as, ilmenite, rutile, zircon, etc. in concentrations of 0.4 – 4.3% of total heavies in the beach and inland placer deposits of the country.
Statement 3 is correct : Indian Rare Earth Limited (IREL), a Mini Ratna Company, is a Government of India Undertaking under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and KMML, a Kerala State Government Undertaking, are actively engaged in mining and processing of beach sand minerals from placer deposits. IREL is the only entity processing monazite to produce Rare Earth (RE) compounds.
Kutos:Geography Expert
Hello! I am a Geography expert. You can ask any question or request a detailed analysis related to this topic.
