It is an extremely brittle, hard metal. Though difficult to melt, it is quickly oxidized. When manganese is pure, it reacts with oxygen and burns when it is a powder. It also reacts with water (it rusts like iron) and dissolves in weak acids. Production of iron and steel requires manganese. Also see: Used Rails <\/a><\/p>\n Industry Applications<\/strong><\/p>\n There are several industrial uses for manganese ore. It is a crucial ingredient in the making of steel; when combined with iron ore, it yields steel that is more resilient to corrosion and more durable than steel produced (Lithium Ore<\/a>)only from iron. Additionally, manganese can be used to create alloys with other metals like copper and aluminum to improve the strength and durability of the final product. Manganese is also used in dry cell batteries and for synthesizing chemicals for use in pharmaceuticals, plastics, fertilizers, and pesticides. | Copper Cathode<\/a><\/p>\n