Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids with a crystalline structure and a definite range of chemical formula. Ores are concentrations of minerals in rock that are high enough to be economically extracted for use. All ores are minerals, but all minerals are not necessarily ores.

Rocks: A rock is made up of two or more minerals. You need minerals to make rocks, but you don't need rocks to make minerals.

Minerals: A mineral is composed of the same substance throughout.

Difference between rock and mineral: A rock is made up of two or more minerals, whereas a mineral is composed of the same substance throughout.

Ore: A mineral or aggregate of minerals from which a valuable constituent can be profitably mined or extracted.

The geologic time scale provides a system of chronological measurement relating stratigraphy to time. It is used by geologists, paleontologists and other earth scientists to describe events in Earth's history.

Evidence from radiometric dating indicates that Earth is about 4.57 billion years old. Geological time is organized into units based on significant geological and paleontological events.

RP means Reconnaissance Permit, PL means Prospecting Licence, and ML means Mining Lease.

Applications for reconnaissance permits, prospecting licences or mining leases for major minerals must be submitted in the prescribed forms to the Deputy Commissioner of the concerned district. The application is examined by the relevant authorities, and the grant order is issued after the requisite conditions are fulfilled.

pH is a measure of the acidic or basic nature of water bodies, solvents or other solutions.

Coal containing significant proportions of pyrites can react with atmospheric oxygen and bacteria to generate sulphuric acid. This can contaminate nearby soil and water bodies, harming aquatic life. The resulting acidic drainage is called Acid Mine Drainage.

Large limestone deposits can result in intricate and beautiful cave systems, which may become geotourism destinations. Meghalaya has several such sites, including Syndai Cave, Krem Lymput Cave and Siju Cave.

Major and minor minerals are classified under the applicable mining laws and rules. Examples and classifications should be checked against the current legislation and rules applicable in Meghalaya.

At least two or three scholarships of Rs. 400 per month each are granted every year, along with a book grant of Rs. 1,000, according to the information on this page.

Qualitative chemical analysis determines the substances present, whereas quantitative analysis determines the quantity of each constituent.

The department's original information describes checkgates established at strategic points and routes in the state to check documents related to royalty and cess payments for mineral transportation.

List of checkgates

1. Mookyndur (East Khasi Hills)
2. Dawki (Jaintia Hills)
3. Umkiang (Jaintia Hills)
4. Garampani (Jaintia Hills)
5. Umling (Ri-Bhoi)
6. Athiabari (West Khasi Hills)
7. Borsora (West Khasi Hills)
8. Chorragaon (West Khasi Hills)
9. Dainadubi (East Garo Hills)
10. Gasuapra (South Garo Hills)
11. Daluagre (West Garo Hills)
12. Masangpani (West Garo Hills)
13. Balachanda (West Garo Hills)
14. Boldoka (West Garo Hills)
15. Dadengre (West Garo Hills)