Cooljarloo, Western Australia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids CooljarlooWestern Australia |
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Area | [convert: needs a number] |
LGA(s) | Shire of Dandaragan |
Cooljarloo, also known as Cooljarloo Well, is a place in Western Australia. It is mostly known for its large deposit of special sand called mineral sands. These sands are dug up by a company called the Tiwest Joint Venture.
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What is Cooljarloo?
Cooljarloo is a small area in the state of Western Australia. It is not a big town or city. Instead, it is famous for what lies beneath its ground: valuable mineral sands. People often call it Cooljarloo Well too.
Where is Cooljarloo located?
Cooljarloo is found in the western part of Australia. It is about 170 kilometres (about 105 miles) north of a big city called Perth. It is also quite close to another small place called Cataby, only about ten kilometres (about 6 miles) north of it. Its exact spot is 30°39'S latitude and 115°22'E longitude.
What are Mineral Sands?
Mineral sands are special types of sand that contain valuable minerals. These minerals are often heavy and shiny. They are found in old beach or river deposits. Over millions of years, wind and water have sorted these minerals. This process creates rich deposits that can be mined.
What minerals are found here?
The mineral sands at Cooljarloo contain important minerals. These include ilmenite, rutile, and zircon.
- Ilmenite is a mineral that is a source of titanium dioxide.
- Rutile is another mineral that is also a source of titanium dioxide.
- Zircon is a mineral that contains zirconium.
How are mineral sands used?
The minerals from places like Cooljarloo are very useful.
- Titanium dioxide is used to make white pigments. These pigments are in paints, plastics, and paper. They make things bright white and opaque.
- Zircon is used in ceramics, like tiles and pottery. It is also used in some special metals and in foundry sands.
Who mines at Cooljarloo?
The mineral sands at Cooljarloo are mined by a group called the Tiwest Joint Venture. This group works together to dig up and process the valuable sands. They extract the minerals and prepare them for use in different industries around the world.
What is a Joint Venture?
A joint venture is when two or more companies team up for a specific project. They share the costs, risks, and profits. The Tiwest Joint Venture is an example of companies working together. They combine their skills and resources to mine the mineral sands at Cooljarloo.