What branch of chemistry would primarily focus on metals and minerals?

The correct answer is Inorganic Chemistry, as this branch of chemistry specifically deals with substances that are not based on carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds, which includes a broad range of elements, particularly metals and minerals. Inorganic chemistry encompasses the study of the properties and behavior of inorganic compounds, which incorporate metals like iron, copper, and aluminum, as well as numerous minerals and salts.

This knowledge is essential in various applications, including materials science, catalysis, and in many biological systems where minerals play a crucial role. Understanding the characteristics and reactions of metals and minerals is significant across many scientific disciplines, making inorganic chemistry vital for fields that require knowledge about these elements.

Other branches of chemistry, such as biochemistry, primarily focus on biological molecules and processes; organic chemistry centers on carbon-containing compounds; and analytical chemistry is concerned with the techniques and methods used to analyze substances. These distinctions clarify the specific focus of inorganic chemistry on metals and minerals, making it the appropriate choice in this context.