Phosphate minerals have had a major impact on human activity by providing a key ingredient in fertilizers. Phosphate minerals are a major source of phosphorus, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth. As a result, the use of phosphate minerals in fertilizers has allowed for increased crop yields, which has enabled humans to feed larger populations and expand agricultural production. Phosphate minerals have also been used in the production of detergents, animal feed, and other products.
