As an example, Denbow cited discoveries of a number of different minerals in war-torn Afghanistan.

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But because different iron minerals behave differently, scientists must know what iron minerals were present, according to Poulton.

MSN: What green rust did long ago to the big blue ocean

Today a car is built from 39 different nonfuel minerals.

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Preliminary mapping data show that Vesta is a world layered in many different rock types and minerals, supporting the notion that it might have become a major planet had it not been trapped in the asteroid belt's powerful gravitational rip tides.

WSJ: Asteroid Vesta Gets a Close Study

Rocks and minerals found on Earth are different than on Mars, but the idea of a mountain made of layers is familiar to scientists.

CNN: Rover Curiosity near Mars landing

The grey stands in contrast to the weathered red outer-coating of the Sheepbed unit, and the darker colour hints at a different oxidation state for iron (Fe) minerals that might be inside the rock.

BBC: Nasa's Curiosity Mars rover to ingest drill sample soon

To this day, different militia often control the mines, selling the minerals into the global supply chain.

BBC: DR Congo mining fights to revive reputation