Geology Reference
In-Depth Information
Pyrite
FeS2
Sulfur ore
Cinnabar
HgS
Mercury ore
CuFeS 2
Chalcopyrite
Copper ore
Oxides
Oxide minerals form when oxygen bonds with metals. They are the source of some of
earth's most important metals including iron, aluminum, titanium, and uranium. Com-
mon oxides are listed in Table 6-4.
Table 6-4 Common Oxide Minerals
Mineral Name
Chemical Composition Common Use
Hematite, Magnetite Fe 2 O 3, Fe 3 O 4
Iron ore
Corundum
Al2O3
Gemstone
SnO 2
Cassiterite
Tin ore
TiO2
Rutile
Titanium ore
UO 2
Uraninite
Uranium ore
Native elements
Native element minerals form when atoms of an element bond to each other, creating a
“pure” mineral with no other ingredients. Native element minerals include gold, silver,
diamond, copper, and platinum and are listed in Table 6-5.
Table 6-5 Common Native Element Minerals
Mineral Name Chemical Composition Common Use
Gold
Au
Jewelry, coins, electronics
Silver
Ag
Jewelry, coins, photography
Platinum
Pt
Jewelry, gasoline production
Diamond
C
Jewelry, drill bits
Copper
Cu
Electrical wiring
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