The correct answer is b) Ilmenite. Ilmenite is an iron titanium oxide mineral with the chemical formula FeTiO3. It is the most abundant of the titanium minerals and is a major source of titanium dioxide, which is used in white paint, paper, and plastics. Ilmenite is also a source of iron ore.
Rutile is a titanium dioxide mineral with the chemical formula TiO2. It is the most common form of titanium dioxide and is used in white paint, paper, and plastics. Rutile is also used in sunscreens and cosmetics.
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with the chemical formula ZrSiO4. It is a hard mineral that is used in jewelry and as an abrasive. Zircon is also used in ceramics and glass.
Monazite is a rare earth phosphate mineral with the chemical formula (Ce,La,Nd,Th)PO4. It is a source of rare earth elements, which are used in electronics, magnets, and other applications.
Ilmenite is the most abundant mineral sand found along Kerala’s coast because it is a common mineral that is found in many parts of the world. It is also a relatively easy mineral to mine and process.