KLAPROTHITE Meaning and
Definition
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Klaprothite is a mineral belonging to the arsenate family with the chemical formula Cu(UO2)2(AsO4)2·8H2O. Named after the German chemist Martin Heinrich Klaproth, it is recognized as a relatively rare secondary mineral that typically forms as a result of the oxidation of primary uranium minerals in the presence of arsenic-rich fluids. Klaprothite generally occurs as slender prismatic crystals or fibrous aggregates with a vitreous to dull luster. It commonly exhibits a yellow to greenish-yellow color, although it can sometimes appear colorless or blue.
This mineral possesses a monoclinic crystal system, meaning its crystals have three axes of different length and only one angle that is not a right angle. It has a relatively low hardness rating of 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale, indicating its susceptibility to scratching and the need for cautious handling. Klaprothite is also considered to be moderately light, exhibiting a pale yellow fluorescence under ultraviolet light.
Due to its specific composition and scarcity, klaprothite primarily attracts interest from mineral collectors and researchers within the field of mineralogy. Its structure and formation can provide valuable insights into the geologic history of uranium deposits, as well as the interplay between uranium and arsenic in hydrothermal environments.
Common Misspellings for KLAPROTHITE
- jlaprothite
- mlaprothite
- llaprothite
- olaprothite
- ilaprothite
- kkaprothite
- kpaprothite
- koaprothite
- klzprothite
- klsprothite
- klwprothite
- klqprothite
- klaorothite
- klalrothite
- kla0rothite
- klapeothite
- klapdothite
- klapfothite
- klaptothite
- klap5othite
