ANS:A - Cerrusite

Cerrusite is a mineral composed of lead carbonate (PbCO3). It typically forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of lead ore deposits. Cerrusite is commonly found in association with galena, which is the primary ore of lead. However, it can also be found alongside zinc ores because lead and zinc often occur together in geological formations. In terms of appearance, cerrusite usually crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system and often forms prismatic or tabular crystals. Its color can vary, but it's often white, gray, or colorless, sometimes with tints of yellow, brown, or blue. Cerrusite has a high density and a relatively high hardness, making it easily recognizable to experienced mineral collectors and geologists. From an economic standpoint, cerrusite has been historically significant as a source of lead, which has various industrial applications. However, it's also relevant to the discussion of zinc because lead-zinc deposits often contain both minerals. When mined for lead extraction, cerrusite may contain zinc as an impurity, and this zinc can sometimes be recovered economically, adding value to the mining operation. Overall, cerrusite plays a role in both the lead and zinc mining industries, and its presence can influence the overall economics of a mining operation, especially when considering the extraction of both lead and zinc from the same deposit.