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).
