Mineral resources are naturally occurring substances found in the Earth's crust that can be extracted and used for various purposes. These resources include metals like iron, copper, and gold, as well as non-metallic minerals such as sand, gravel, and limestone. They are essential for manufacturing, construction, and energy production. The extraction of mineral resources often involves mining, which can be done through different methods, including open-pit mining and underground mining. Proper management and sustainable practices are important to minimize environmental impacts and ensure that these resources are available for future generations.