ORES are the mineral bodies from which metals are extracted. Metals exist in ores,—(1.) In the metallic state, when they are either pure or combined with each other, as in the state of alloy; (2.) Combined with oxygen in the
Örebro state of an oxide; (3.) Combined with sulphur in the state of sulphuret; and (4.) With acids, forming salts. (See MINES AND MINING.)