AllMineralsRock
Galena
Galena is a very popular mineral composed of lead sulfide. [1]
Galena: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Galena:- Transparency: Galena is opaque.
- Luster: In terms of luster, galena can be dull or metallic.
- Streak: Galena streaks steel-gray.
- Specific Gravity: Galena's specific gravity ranges from 7.4 to 7.6.
Galena: Background and Summary
Galena is a common mineral that is mainly composed of lead sulfide (PbS). It is a dense, soft, and metallic mineral that is easily recognizable due to its distinctive dark grey to black color and metallic luster. Galena can be identified by its high density, which is about 7.5 times that of water, and it is also easily scratched with a knife or a fingernail.Galena is commonly found in hydrothermal veins associated with other minerals such as sphalerite, chalcopyrite, and pyrite. It is also found in sedimentary rocks as nodules, veins, and disseminations. Galena is one of the most important lead ores, and it is mined in many countries around the world, including the United States, Australia, China, and Peru.
Galena has a wide range of applications, and it is mainly used as a source of lead metal. Lead has many industrial applications, including in batteries, ammunition, and radiation shielding. Galena is also used as a decorative stone, and it is sometimes used in jewelry. Additionally, galena has been used in traditional medicine for its supposed healing properties.
Galena: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Galena (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | opaque |
| Chemical Formula | PbS |
| Chemical Composition | lead sulfide |
| Specific Gravity | 7.4, 7.6 |
| Streak | steel-gray |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: gray |
Galena: FAQ
Q: Is galena radioactive?A: No, galena is not radioactive. However, it may contain small amounts of radioactive elements such as uranium and thorium.
Q: Is galena toxic?
A: Galena itself is not toxic, but lead, which is extracted from galena, can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. Therefore, it is important to handle galena and lead products with care.
Q: Where can I find galena?
A: Galena is found in many countries around the world, including the United States, Australia, China, and Peru. It is commonly found in hydrothermal veins associated with other minerals such as sphalerite, chalcopyrite, and pyrite. It is also found in sedimentary rocks as nodules, veins, and disseminations.
Sources
- Mindat.org. (n.d.). Galena. Retrieved from https://www.mindat.org/min-1648.html- Britannica. (n.d.). Galena. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/galena
- USGS. (n.d.). Mineral Commodity Summaries 2021. Retrieved from https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2021/mcs2021-lead.pdf
- Galena: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galena
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