Final answer:
There are seven major minerals considered essential, which include sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and sulfur, all required in amounts larger than 100 milligrams daily.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number of major minerals considered to be essential is seven. These major minerals are sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and sulfur. They are required in the diet each day in substantial amounts (more than 100 milligrams).
The most common minerals in the body are calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for the hardening of bones. Other major minerals like sodium and chloride function as electrolytes, and various minerals play crucial roles in physiological processes throughout the body. A varied diet greatly improves the ability to meet these mineral requirements.