Which resource is not a significant contributor to South America's economy?
(1 point)
Responses
petroleum
copper
gold
zinc
While all the resources listed - petroleum, copper, gold, and zinc - contribute to South America's economy in varying degrees, relative to the other resources, zinc may be considered less of a significant contributor compared to the others mentioned.
South America has substantial reserves of petroleum, especially in countries like Venezuela, Brazil, and Ecuador, making it a major contributor to the continent's economy. Venezuela has some of the world's largest proven oil reserves, and Brazil has been increasing its oil production substantially over the past few years.
Copper is another significant resource, particularly for countries like Chile, which is the world's largest producer of copper, and Peru. The mining sector in these countries contributes a large portion to their GDP and export earnings.
Gold is also an important resource in South America, with countries like Peru and Brazil being significant producers.
While zinc is mined in South America, and countries like Peru are large producers on a global scale, when compared to the economic impact of petroleum, copper, and gold, zinc might be considered the least among the options provided. However, it's important to note that this doesn't mean zinc is not a valuable or important resource; it's just that in comparison, it may not have the same level of economic significance as the others listed.