NICKELHEXAHYDRITE Meaning and
Definition
-
Nickelhexahydrite is a chemical compound that falls under the category of a mineral. It is a complex compound composed of nickel, hydrogen, and oxygen with the chemical formula Ni(H2O)6. The term "hexahydrite" refers to the presence of six water molecules (H2O) in the compound.
Nickelhexahydrite typically occurs as a bright green crystalline substance, forming in the oxidized zone of nickel ore deposits. It is considered a secondary mineral, meaning it is formed by the alteration and transformation of primary minerals under specific environmental conditions. It is mainly found in association with other nickel-bearing minerals such as garnierite and pentlandite.
The unique crystal structure of nickelhexahydrite allows it to exhibit a variety of physical properties, including a high degree of transparency and a vitreous or glassy luster. It is also relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of around 2.5.
From an industrial perspective, nickelhexahydrite holds significance as a potential nickel source due to its nickel content. However, it is not economically exploited on a large scale because of its relatively low nickel concentrations and its limited occurrence.
In summary, nickelhexahydrite is a mineral compound containing nickel, hydrogen, and oxygen with the chemical formula Ni(H2O)6. It is characterized by its green color, crystal structure, and occurrence in association with nickel-bearing minerals.
Etymology of NICKELHEXAHYDRITE
The word "nickelhexahydrite" is a compound noun that is derived from two main components: "nickel" and "hexahydrite".
1. Nickel: The term "nickel" is derived from the German word "kupfernickel", which originally referred to a copper-colored mineral. It was later identified as a distinct element and named "nickel" by the Swedish chemist Axel Fredrik Cronstedt in 1751. Cronstedt named it after a mischievous sprite from German folklore called "Nickel", which was said to cause trouble for miners due to the nickel-rich ores often being mistaken for copper ores.
2. Hexahydrite: The term "hexahydrite" comes from the Greek roots "hexa" meaning "six" and "hydor" meaning "water".
