In metallurgical terms, what is "taconite" primarily regarded as?

Taconite is primarily regarded as an iron ore because it is a low-grade iron ore that contains about 25-30% iron, in the form of magnetite or hematite, along with silicate and other minerals. Taconite is typically mined and processed to produce iron pellets, which are then used in steel production. Its significance lies in the fact that while it has a lower iron content compared to higher-grade ores, it is abundant and serves as a crucial resource, particularly in regions where high-grade iron ore is less available. The processing of taconite involves crushing, grinding, and concentrating to extract the iron, making it a vital part of the iron and steel industry. This defines its classification as an iron ore, distinguishing it from copper, silver, or steel scrap, which have different compositions and uses in metallurgical applications.