AllMineralsRock
Chalcocite
Chalcocite is a popular mineral composed of copper sulfide. [1]
Chalcocite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Chalcocite:- Transparency: Chalcocite is opaque.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, chalcocite is orthorhombic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, chalcocite is metallic.
- Streak: Chalcocite streaks gray or shiny.
- Specific Gravity: Chalcocite's specific gravity ranges from 5.5 to 5.8.
Chalcocite: Background and Summary
Chalcocite is a copper sulfide mineral that has a dark gray to black color and a metallic luster. Its chemical formula is Cu2S, and it has a hardness of 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale. Chalcocite is often found in hydrothermal veins and is associated with other copper sulfide minerals such as chalcopyrite and bornite. It is a secondary mineral that forms from the alteration of primary copper minerals.Chalcocite has several uses in industry. It is an important source of copper, as it contains up to 80% copper by weight. It is also used in the production of electrical wires and cables, as well as in the manufacturing of electronic components. Chalcocite is also used as a pigment in ceramics and as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
To identify chalcocite, one can perform several tests. The mineral has a dark gray to black color and a metallic luster. It is opaque and has a high specific gravity. One can also perform a streak test by scratching the mineral on a porcelain plate. Chalcocite will leave a black streak. Additionally, chalcocite is soluble in nitric acid, which can be used to distinguish it from other copper sulfide minerals.
Chalcocite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Chalcocite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | opaque |
| Chemical Formula | Cu2S |
| Chemical Composition | copper sulfide |
| Specific Gravity | 5.5, 5.8 |
| Streak | gray, shiny |
| Crystallography | orthorhombic |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: gray sometimes: black, blue, purple |
| Category | sulfide |
Chalcocite: FAQ
Q: Is chalcocite toxic?A: Chalcocite itself is not toxic, but it may contain impurities that can be harmful.
Q: Where is chalcocite found?
A: Chalcocite is found in hydrothermal veins and is associated with other copper sulfide minerals such as chalcopyrite and bornite.
Q: What is chalcocite used for?
A: Chalcocite is an important source of copper, as it contains up to 80% copper by weight. It is also used in the production of electrical wires and cables, as well as in the manufacturing of electronic components. Chalcocite is also used as a pigment in ceramics and as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
Sources
- Mindat.org. (n.d.). Chalcocite. Retrieved from https://www.mindat.org/min-947.html- Britannica. (n.d.). Chalcocite. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/chalcocite
- Chalcocite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalcocite
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