Question

Identify the metal found in each mineral. a. sphalerite b. malachite c. hausmannite

Short answer

The metals found in each mineral are: sphalerite contains zinc (Zn), malachite contains copper (Cu), and hausmannite contains manganese (Mn).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Metal in Sphalerite

To identify the metal in sphalerite, look up its chemical formula, which is ZnS. This indicates that the metal found in sphalerite is zinc (Zn).

Identify the Metal in Malachite

To determine the metal in malachite, examine its chemical formula, which is Cu2CO3(OH)2. This shows that the metal present in malachite is copper (Cu).

Identify the Metal in Hausmannite

For identifying the metal in hausmannite, find its chemical formula, which is Mn3O4. This reveals that the metal in hausmannite is manganese (Mn).

Key concepts

Understanding Sphalerite and Its Zinc Content

When it comes to identifying valuable minerals within the Earth's crust, sphalerite stands out for its high zinc (Zn) content. This mineral's chemical formula is expressed as ZnS, which means it contains zinc and sulfur. Sphalerite is the primary ore of zinc, a metal essential for human health and various industrial processes.

By analyzing its chemical formula, we can see that for every molecule of sphalerite, there is one atom of zinc. This simplicity helps us quickly identify the metal content within the mineral. Zinc's uses range from galvanization to alloy production, which helps prevent rust in other metals and creates materials with desired properties. In studying such minerals, remember that their composition directly impacts their practical applications and value.

The Rich Copper Content in Malachite

Malachite, with its striking green color, is not only valued as a gemstone but also as a significant copper ore. Its unique formula, Cu2CO3(OH)2, houses two copper atoms along with carbonate and hydroxide groups. This indicates a substantial copper content, with copper constituting a significant proportion of the mineral's total mass.

Furthermore, knowing that each malachite molecule contains two copper atoms allows us to appreciate its importance in providing copper for various applications. Copper is a versatile metal used for electrical wiring due to its excellent conductivity, plumbing, coinage, and as an alloy component. Getting familiar with formulas like that of malachite can give us insights into the extraction and processing of metals for various industries.

Hausmannite and Its Manganese Content

Hausmannite's formula, Mn3O4, highlights the presence of manganese (Mn) as the key metal in this mineral. The '3' before Mn indicates that there are three manganese atoms for every molecule of hausmannite. This detail is crucial for understanding the mineral's manganese content and, by extension, its overall value in numerous applications.

Manganese plays a critical role in steel production, acting as an alloying agent to improve the steel's hardness and strength. It is also used in the manufacture of batteries and other electronic components. Recognizing the composition of minerals like hausmannite provides a pathway to discover sources of essential industrial metals such as manganese.