Manganite


Manganite is a popular mineral composed of manganese hydroxide. [1]

Images of manganite

Manganite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Manganite:
  • Transparency: Manganite is opaque.
  • Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, manganite is monoclinic.
  • Luster: In terms of luster, manganite is submetallic.
  • Streak: Manganite streaks black, brown, brown black, reddish or reddish brown.
  • Specific Gravity: Manganite's specific gravity ranges from 4.3 to 4.4.

Manganite: Background and Summary

Manganite is a mineral that belongs to the oxide mineral group. It is a rare mineral that is usually found in the oxidized zones of hydrothermal manganese deposits. Manganite is usually black or dark brown in color and has a metallic luster. It has a Mohs hardness of 4, which means it can be scratched by a knife. Manganite is known for its unique crystal structure, which is made up of long, needle-like crystals.

To identify manganite, one can look for its characteristic color and crystal structure. It is also possible to perform a streak test, which involves rubbing the mineral against a piece of unglazed porcelain. Manganite will leave a dark brown streak. Another way to identify manganite is to perform a chemical analysis, which can reveal the presence of manganese oxide.

Manganite has several uses in industry and technology. It is used as a pigment in paints and ceramics, where its black color is highly valued. It is also used in the production of batteries, where it serves as a cathode material. Manganite has also been studied for its potential use as a catalyst in chemical reactions.

Manganite: Table of Properties

Attribute Manganite (src)
Transparency opaque
Chemical Formula MnO(OH)
Chemical Composition manganese hydroxide
Specific Gravity 4.3, 4.4
Streak brown black, reddish, brown, reddish brown, black
Crystallography monoclinic
Hydrous No
Colors common: gray
sometimes: brown
less common: black, red, white
Birefringence δ = 0.280


Manganite: FAQ

Q: Is manganite a common mineral?
A: No, manganite is a rare mineral that is usually found in hydrothermal manganese deposits.

Q: What is the color of manganite?
A: Manganite is usually black or dark brown in color.

Q: What is the Mohs hardness of manganite?
A: Manganite has a Mohs hardness of 4.

Q: What are the uses of manganite?
A: Manganite is used as a pigment in paints and ceramics, as a cathode material in batteries, and as a catalyst in chemical reactions.

Sources

- Mindat.org. (n.d.). Manganite. Retrieved from https://www.mindat.org/min-2555.html
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Webmineral.com. (n.d.). Manganite Mineral Data. Retrieved from http://webmineral.com/data/Manganite.shtml
- Manganite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manganite

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