GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Magnetite is a mineral and one of the main iron ores, with the chemical formula Fe2+Fe3+2O4. It is one of the oxides of iron, and is ferrimagnetic; it is attracted to a magnet and can be magnetized to become a permanent magnet itself.

Detailed explanation-2: -True hematite, though iron-containing, actually has a weak magnetic field because of the way its iron atoms are aligned. On the other hand, the mineral magnetite is highly magnetic, and many often erroneously assume it is magnetic hematite (the artificial material).

Detailed explanation-3: -Commonly known as Lodestone, this magnetic form of Magnetite is the only mineral that is a natural magnet. Due to the magnetism of Lodestone, small iron particles are often found clinging to its surfaces. (Some dealers may even intentionally place metallic filings on a Lodestone to demonstrate its magnetism.)

Detailed explanation-4: -Magnetic minerals are an important class of iron-bearing minerals that occur as iron oxides (magnetite, maghemite, haematite), oxyhydroxides (goethite, ferrihydrite, lepidocrocite), and sulphides (greigite, pyrrhotite).