Japan finds huge deposit of rare-earth minerals

A study published in the journal Nature reveals the discovery of 16 million tons of rare Earth minerals off the coast of Japan, near Minami-Torishima island, at a depth of 6,000 meters. These minerals, including yttrium, dysprosium, europium, and terbium, are crucial for manufacturing smartphones, electric cars, and rechargeable batteries.

Where were the rare minerals discovered according to the study?

• In the Sahara Desert

• Off the coast of Australia

• Off the coast of Japan

• Near the Arctic Circle

How deep were the minerals found beneath sea level?

• 3,000 meters

• 7,500 meters

• 4,500 meters

• 6,000 meters

Which of the following minerals was NOT mentioned as part of the deposit?

• Dysprosium

• Terbium

• Gold

• Yttrium

Approximately how many tons of rare minerals were estimated to be in the deposit?

• 16 million tons

• 10 million tons

• 20 million tons

• 25 million tons

What are some of the uses of these rare Earth minerals?

• Textile manufacturing

• Agricultural fertilizers

• Smartphones and electric cars

• Building construction