Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Polymetallic
Containing or relating to multiple metals or metallic minerals occurring together in the same geological deposit or formation; applied especially to deep-sea nodules and seafloor crusts that concentrate several economically valuable metals simultaneously
Greek poly (many) + Latin metallum (metal) — referring to multiple metals co-occurring
"India's Exclusive Economic Zone and designated deep-sea exploration areas contain polymetallic nodules rich in manganese, cobalt, nickel, and copper — resources that the Deep Ocean Mission (2021) aims to survey and eventually extract as part of India's blue economy strategy."
Growing UPSC relevance for GS3 (Environment & Economy — blue economy, critical minerals, deep-sea mining). Key facts: Polymetallic nodules found on deep ocean floors (4,000-6,000 m depth) — contain Mn, Co, Ni, Cu. India's Exclusive Economic Zone covers 2.37 million sq km. International Seabed Authority (ISA) — Jamaica — governs international seabed mining rights. India has ISA exploration licence in Central Indian Ocean Basin. Deep Ocean Mission (₹4,077 crore) — includes manned submersible Matsya 6000 targeting 6,000 m depth. Linked to critical minerals strategy (EV batteries, clean energy).
