Monazite is a rare phosphate mineral primarily composed of cerium, lanthanum, and thorium phosphates. It typically appears as a brown or yellowish-brown, granular substance and is often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Monazite is an important source of rare earth elements, which are essential in various high-tech applications, including electronics and renewable energy technologies.
The mineral is usually extracted through mining processes, and its deposits are found in several countries, including India, Brazil, and Australia. Due to its content of thorium, monazite is also studied for potential use in nuclear energy applications. However, the radioactive nature of thorium requires careful handling and regulation.