Question

Beryl is (1) $3\mathrm{BeO}\cdot {\mathrm{Al}}_2{\mathrm{O}}_3\cdot 6{\mathrm{SiO}}_2$ (2) $\mathrm{BeO}\cdot {\mathrm{Al}}_2{\mathrm{O}}_3$ (3) $2\mathrm{BeO}\cdot {\mathrm{SiO}}_2$ (4) BeO

Short answer

Option 1: $3\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3\times 6{\text{SiO}}_2$

Step-by-step solution

Determine the chemical formula of Beryl

Beryl is a mineral composed of various elements including beryllium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. The standard chemical formula for Beryl is: $$3\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3\times 6{\text{SiO}}_2$$.

Compare with given options

Compare the standard formula for Beryl to the provided options: 1. $3\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3\times 6{\text{SiO}}_2$2. $\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3$3. $2\text{BeO}\times {\text{SiO}}_2$4. $\text{BeO}$

Select the matching option

The correct formula for Beryl matches the standard formula provided in option 1: $3\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3\times 6{\text{SiO}}_2$.

Key concepts

mineral composition

Mineral composition refers to the different elements and compounds that make up a mineral. Beryl, for example, is composed of several elements and compounds. Its formula is represented as $3\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3\times 6{\text{SiO}}_2$. This indicates that beryl consists of beryllium oxide, aluminum oxide, and silicon dioxide. Understanding the mineral composition is vital because it helps in identifying the mineral and understanding its properties. For beryl: \

• Beryllium oxide (BeO)
• Aluminum oxide (Al_2O_3)
• Silicon dioxide (SiO_2)

are all present in specific ratios. Recognizing these compounds is essential for mineral identification and for applications in various industries.

beryllium compounds

Beryllium compounds play a crucial role in the composition of several minerals including beryl. Beryllium itself is a rare earth element, and compounds like beryllium oxide (BeO) are crucial in mineral formation. In beryl, beryllium is present as part of its chemical structure, forming beryllium oxide (BeO).
Beryllium compounds have unique properties, such as high melting points and the ability to form transparent crystals. These properties make beryllium valuable in industries such as aerospace and electronics. Knowing about beryllium compounds in minerals can be significant for both geological studies and practical applications.

crystal structure identification

Crystal structure identification is the process of determining the arrangement of atoms within a crystal. This is crucial for understanding the mineral's properties and behavior.
Beryl, with its chemical formula $3\text{BeO}\times {\text{Al}}_2{\text{O}}_3\times 6{\text{SiO}}_2$, forms hexagonal crystals. This means that its atoms are arranged in a hexagonal lattice, which influences its appearance and physical properties.
Identifying the crystal structure involves using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD). By understanding the crystal structure, scientists can predict how the mineral will react under different conditions, its hardness, and even its color.
Knowledge of crystal structures is not only important for academic research but also for industrial applications where specific structural properties are needed.