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Chalcopyrite
Chalcopyrite is a popular mineral composed of copper iron sulfide. [1]
Chalcopyrite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Chalcopyrite:- Transparency: Chalcopyrite is opaque.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, chalcopyrite is tetragonal.
- Luster: In terms of luster, chalcopyrite is metallic.
- Streak: Chalcopyrite streaks black, black green or green.
- Specific Gravity: Chalcopyrite's specific gravity ranges from 4.1 to 4.3.
Chalcopyrite: Background and Summary
Chalcopyrite is a mineral that is known for its copper content. It is a sulfide mineral that is sometimes referred to as "fool's gold" because of its metallic luster and yellowish color. Chalcopyrite is commonly found in hydrothermal veins, disseminated in igneous rocks, and in some sedimentary rocks.To identify chalcopyrite, one should look for its characteristic yellowish color and metallic luster. It has a hardness of 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 4.1-4.3. Chalcopyrite is also known for its greenish-black streak.
Chalcopyrite has several uses, including as a source of copper. It is one of the most important copper ores and is commonly used in the production of copper metal. Chalcopyrite is also used in the production of sulfuric acid, which is used in many industrial processes. Additionally, it is sometimes used as a gemstone, although it is not as popular as other minerals such as quartz or garnet.
Chalcopyrite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Chalcopyrite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | opaque |
| Chemical Formula | CuFeS2 |
| Chemical Composition | copper iron sulfide |
| Specific Gravity | 4.1, 4.3 |
| Streak | black green, green, black |
| Crystallography | tetragonal |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: purple, yellow sometimes: red, brown less common: blue, black, brass, iridescent, gold, multicolor |
| Solubility | Soluble in HNO3 |
| Category | sulfide |
Chalcopyrite: FAQ
Q: Is chalcopyrite toxic?A: Chalcopyrite is not considered toxic, but it can release sulfur dioxide gas when heated, which can be harmful if inhaled.
Q: Where is chalcopyrite found?
A: Chalcopyrite is found in many locations around the world, including the United States, Canada, Peru, Chile, Mexico, Australia, and China.
Q: Can chalcopyrite be polished?
A: Yes, chalcopyrite can be polished to create a shiny surface. However, it is not as commonly used as other minerals for this purpose.
Sources
- https://www.minerals.net/mineral/chalcopyrite.aspx- https://geology.com/minerals/chalcopyrite.shtml
- https://www.azomining.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=1238
- Chalcopyrite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalcopyrite
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