Question

Export of Mica from India has reduced, because________.
 A. Its production has decreased.
B. Its production has increased.
C. Substitute for mica is available.
D. It is a non-ferrous mineral.

Answer 1

Hint: Mica is the assemblage of silicate minerals along with varying quantities of aluminum, iron, magnesium, potassium, and water. The improved qualities of this mineral make it convenient for use in different fields. India is the largest producer of mica in the world.

Complete Answer: India has large reserves of mica, mostly found under forests in central and eastern parts.
India is the largest producer and exporter of mica in the world. Mica exports from India has declined in recent years;
-due to active trading from other countries and creation of 'trade blocs'.
-because synthetic mica is being generated in many countries.
-Another significant reason is that ceramics and plastics are being used by industries, in place of mica.

The major uses of sheet and block mica are-
-as electrical insulators in electronic equipment
-thermal insulation
-windows in stove and kerosene heaters
-dielectrics in capacitors
-field coil insulation
-cosmetics

a.The production of Mica has not decreased. This option is incorrect.

b. Mica production in India has not increased. This option is incorrect.

c. The substitute for natural mica is synthetic mica. It is environmentally friendly too. This option is correct.

d. Mica being a non-ferrous metal doesn't become a cause for its decrease in export. This option is incorrect.

Hence, the correct answer is option 'c'.

Note: India ranks first position in the production of mica, Andhra Pradesh being the largest producing state. Under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 mica mining was banned. By 2000, mica mining ground to a complete stop and after that illegal scavenging began.