HORSFORDITE Meaning and
Definition
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Horsfordite is a mineral which belongs to the phosphate mineral group. It is named after Professor Edmund N. Horsford, an American chemist and inventor. It has a unique chemical composition, being an orthophosphate with rare earth elements and calcium as its primary constituents. The chemical formula of horsfordite is Ca(OH)[REE(PO4)2(H2O)3] · H2O, where REE represents rare earth elements.
Horsfordite typically occurs as small crystalline aggregates or crusts in phosphatic rock formations. It is commonly found in granite pegmatites and phosphate-rich hydrothermal deposits. The mineral forms as a secondary phase resulting from the alteration of primary phosphate minerals during geological processes.
Visually, horsfordite appears as translucent to opaque crystals with a vitreous to silky luster. Its color ranges from pale yellow to golden yellow, occasionally exhibiting brownish hues. The mineral has a brittle tenacity and a relatively low hardness, measuring about 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale.
Due to its scarcity and the specific conditions required for its formation, horsfordite is considered a rare mineral. It holds scientific significance primarily for its composition and crystal structure, contributing to the understanding of geological processes and the formation of phosphate minerals. Horsfordite is sought after by mineral collectors and researchers interested in studying the properties and occurrence of orthophosphate minerals.
Common Misspellings for HORSFORDITE
- gorsfordite
- borsfordite
- norsfordite
- jorsfordite
- uorsfordite
- yorsfordite
- hirsfordite
- hkrsfordite
- hlrsfordite
- hprsfordite
- h0rsfordite
- h9rsfordite
- hoesfordite
- hodsfordite
- hofsfordite
- hotsfordite
- ho5sfordite
- ho4sfordite
- horafordite
- horzfordite
