Érc

érc is the Hungarian word for ore, referring to a naturally occurring solid from which a valuable substance can be economically extracted. In geology and mining, an ore consists of ore minerals containing the target element, plus gangue, the accompanying non-valuable material. An ore is distinguished by its potential for processing to recover metal rather than by mineral purity alone.

Ore minerals vary in composition and concentration. Metallic ores include iron ore minerals such as hematite and magnetite; copper ores such as chalcopyrite and malachite; zinc and lead ores such as sphalerite and galena; and precious metal ores such as native gold or argentite. Non-metallic ore examples include bauxite for aluminum, phosphates, and limestone used in cement. The ore category therefore covers diverse mineral assemblages.

Ore deposits form by geological processes including magmatic differentiation, hydrothermal activity, sedimentary exhalation, and lateritic weathering. Economic viability depends on grade, tonnage, geometry, and metal price, leading to definitions of ore resources and ore reserves. Access, mining costs, and technology further influence whether an ore body is developed.

Extraction begins with mining and blasting, followed by crushing and concentration to increase metal content through methods such as flotation or gravity separation. The concentrated ore is smelted or refined to produce the metal, with waste materials (tailings) and environmental considerations arising from processing.

As a general term in Hungarian, érc is used in geology, mining, and related fields to discuss ore types, deposits, and extraction economics.