Question

Choose the characteristic mineral(s) formed in the supergene enriched zone of a sulphide deposit.

• A. Psilomelane
• B. Covellite
• C. Cassiterite
• D. Chalcocite

Hint:

In the supergene enriched zone, secondary minerals like covellite form due to the oxidation of primary sulphides such as chalcopyrite.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, D

Step 1: Understanding supergene enriched zones. 
The supergene enriched zone is the part of a sulphide deposit where oxidation and leaching processes concentrate secondary minerals. Covellite is a copper mineral that forms in such environments, commonly in the oxidized zone of copper sulphide deposits. 
 

Step 2: Analyzing the options. 
(A) Psilomelane: Psilomelane is a manganese mineral and is not typically found in the supergene zone of copper deposits. 
(B) Covellite: Covellite is a characteristic mineral in the supergene enriched zone of copper sulphide deposits. 
(C) Cassiterite: Cassiterite is a tin oxide mineral and is not associated with the supergene enriched zone of sulphide deposits. 
(D) Chalcocite: Chalcocite is a copper sulphide. 
 

Step 3: Conclusion. 
The correct answer is (B) Covellite and (D) Chalcocite