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Geography · Ch 5 — Secondary Activities

(c) Chemical based Industries

5.3.2.3

(c) Chemical based Industries

Chemical Based Industries

These industries rely on natural chemical minerals as their primary raw material. The most prominent example is the petrochemical industry, which uses mineral oil (petroleum). Other natural minerals used directly include salts, sulphur, and potash.

Beyond minerals, chemical industries also draw raw materials from biological sources. Wood and coal provide the base for many chemical processes. The resulting products are diverse and essential to modern life.

Key examples of chemical based industries include:

  • Petrochemical industry – uses petroleum to produce fuels, plastics, and synthetic fibres
  • Salt, sulphur, and potash industries – process these natural minerals for industrial and agricultural use
  • Wood and coal based chemical industries – produce chemicals like tar, dyes, and solvents
  • Synthetic fibre and plastic industries – manufacture materials used in textiles, packaging, and countless consumer goods …