### Question
How does the law define critical mineral?


### Answer
Under *30 U.S.C. § 1601*, **critical mineral** is defined as:

> any mineral, element, substance, or material designated as critical by the Secretary under section 1606(c) of this title

#### Citation:
  - *30 U.S.C. § 1601*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 28-MATERIALS AND MINERALS POLICY, RESEARCH, AND DEVELOPMENT**

