Crossword Genius

Mineral providing some chemicals (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mica

'mineral' is the definition.
(mica is a kind of mineral)

'some chemicals' is the wordplay.
'some' indicates a hidden word (some of the parts of the word are used).
'MICA' is hidden within 'chemicals'.

'providing' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for mica that I've seen before include "Isinglass" , "Flexible mineral found in igneous and metamorphic rocks" , "Shiny silicate mineral" , "Transparent mineral" , "Muscovite with perfect cleavage" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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