What is another word for columbite-tantalite?
Pronunciation: [kˈɒləmbˌa͡ɪttˈantəlˌa͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Columbite-tantalite, also known as coltan, is a mineral that is commonly used in the manufacturing of electronic devices, such as smartphones and laptops. It is a valuable resource, but the mining and trade of coltan have often been linked to armed conflict, human rights abuses, and environmental degradation in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to these issues, many different synonyms for columbite-tantalite have been used in an attempt to create a more ethical supply chain, including minerals such as wolframite, tantalum, and niobium. By using alternative resources, we can help reduce the harmful impacts of the mining industry on people and the planet.
