Aluminum ores are naturally occurring minerals from which aluminum can be extracted. The most common aluminum ore is bauxite, which contains a high percentage of aluminum oxide. Other ores include cryolite and alunite, but bauxite is the primary source for aluminum production worldwide. The extraction process involves refining the ore to obtain aluminum oxide, which is then reduced to aluminum metal through electrolysis. This process is energy-intensive but essential for producing aluminum, a lightweight and versatile metal used in various applications, including packaging, construction, and transportation.