What are major minerals?

• A. Minerals required in amounts greater than 100 mg/day.
• B. Minerals required in amounts less than 100 mg/day.
• C. Vitamins that help produce energy.
• D. Elements not essential for health.

Answer: (A)

Major minerals are nutrients the body needs in relatively large amounts each day, typically more than 100 mg. This group, sometimes called macrominerals, includes calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and sulfur. They play essential structural and regulatory roles—for example, calcium and phosphorus support bones and teeth, while potassium, sodium, and chloride help regulate fluid balance and nerve signaling. Because these functions require steady, larger supplies, the body requires them in amounts above 100 mg per day.

In contrast, trace minerals are needed in smaller amounts (less than 100 mg daily) and include iron, zinc, copper, iodine, selenium, and others. The other answer options describe vitamins or nonessential substances, which aren’t fitting for the concept of major minerals.