Q57. About three-fourths world’s cobalt, a metal required for the manufacture of batteries for electric motor vehicles, as produced by:

Explanation :

Correct Answer – C

Top Cobalt Producing Countries

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the world’s largest producer of cobalt, accounting for about three-fourths (approximately 75%) of the global supply. Cobalt is a crucial metal used in the manufacture of batteries for electric motor vehicles, as well as other electronic devices and aerospace applications. The DRC has vast mineral resources, including significant deposits of cobalt, which is primarily extracted as a byproduct of copper and nickel mining. The country’s vast cobalt reserves and its dominant position in the global cobalt market make it a critical player in the transition to electric vehicles and clean energy technologies.

Apart from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, other countries with significant cobalt production and reserves include:

1. Russia

Russia is one of the world’s leading cobalt producers, with the metal being primarily extracted as a byproduct of nickel mining operations. The Norilsk Nickel Company is a major player in the country’s cobalt production.

2. Australia

Australia has substantial cobalt reserves and production, with the metal being extracted mainly as a byproduct of copper and nickel mining. Key cobalt-producing regions in Australia include Western Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales.

3. Canada

Canada has considerable cobalt resources, primarily located in the province of Ontario. The metal is extracted as a byproduct of copper and nickel mining operations. The Canadian company First Cobalt is focused on developing cobalt projects in the country.

4. Cuba

Cobalt production in Cuba is primarily associated with the country’s nickel mining industry. The Moa region in eastern Cuba is particularly rich in cobalt and nickel resources.

5. Zambia

Zambia is another African country with significant cobalt production, which is mainly extracted as a byproduct of copper mining. The country’s Copperbelt region hosts large cobalt reserves.