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mineral
(minīәr-әl)
general term for any of numerous nonorganic, homogeneous, solid substances, including some consisting of just one element
and others that are chemical compounds.
any of the nonorganic substances that are essential to health and must be obtained in the diet. Calcium, iron, and iodine are the ones most frequently missing in the diet. Zinc, copper, magnesium, and potassium are minerals that are frequently involved in disturbances of metabolism. Other essential minerals include selenium, phosphorus, manganese, fluoride, chromium, and molybdenum.
trace mineral
a mineral that is a trace element.

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