WHEWELLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Whewellite is a mineral that belongs to the group of oxalates, crystallizing in the monoclinic system. It was discovered in 1818 and named after William Whewell, an English mineralogist. This mineral is commonly found in various geologic environments and typically occurs as soft or sometimes powdery aggregates.
Whewellite is characterized by its distinct crystal structure, which consists of interconnected groups of oxalate ions held together by calcium cations. The crystal habit of this mineral is varied and can range from tabular to prismatic or even fibrous. It frequently exhibits a vitreous to resinous luster on its surfaces.
In terms of physical properties, Whewellite is typically colorless or white, although it may display shades of yellow or brown due to impurities. Its hardness falls within the range of 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale, indicating a relatively low level of hardness. The specific gravity of Whewellite is usually around 1.6, contributing to its lightweight nature.
This mineral is commonly formed in sedimentary or igneous rocks that undergo alteration or weathering processes. It can also occur within caves or other geologic formations where it may be associated with other minerals like gypsum or calcite.
Whewellite holds a minor importance in industrial applications and is primarily valued as a collector's mineral due to its uniqueness and rarity. It is a fascinating mineral for geologists and mineral enthusiasts to study its crystal structure and formation processes.
Common Misspellings for WHEWELLITE
Etymology of WHEWELLITE
The word "Whewellite" is named after the English chemist William Whewell (1794-1866). Whewellite was a distinguished scientist who specialized in crystallography and mineralogy. He described and analyzed numerous minerals during his career, and as a tribute, this particular mineral was named Whewellite in his honor.
