ZEUNERITE Meaning and
Definition
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Zeunerite is a mineral belonging to the phosphate group, specifically a hydrate of copper uranyl phosphate. It has a chemical composition of (Cu,Fe)2(UO2)2(PO4)2·6H2O. The mineral is named after Carl Zeuner, a German mineralogist who played a significant role in the study of mineralogy and crystallography.
Zeunerite typically forms in oxidized uranium-bearing deposits and is commonly found associated with other secondary uranium minerals. It occurs as small, prismatic to tabular crystals or as radiating fibrous aggregates. The mineral can exhibit a range of colors including green, yellow-green, and greenish-black.
In terms of physical properties, zeunerite has a vitreous to greasy luster and a rather brittle tenacity. It is not a particularly hard mineral, having a Mohs hardness rating of only 2.5 to 3. Its specific gravity is around 3.4, indicating it is heavier than an average rock.
Due to its uranium content, zeunerite is of interest to researchers in the field of nuclear energy. However, it is not considered a significant source of uranium due to its limited occurrence and relatively low uranium concentration.
Zeunerite's unique characteristics and striking appearance make it a sought-after mineral for collectors and enthusiasts. Its vivid color and association with uranium minerals contribute to its value and desirability in mineral collections.
Common Misspellings for ZEUNERITE
- xeunerite
- seunerite
- aeunerite
- zwunerite
- zsunerite
- zdunerite
- zrunerite
- z4unerite
- z3unerite
- zeynerite
- zehnerite
- zejnerite
- zeinerite
- ze8nerite
- ze7nerite
- zeuberite
- zeumerite
- zeujerite
- zeuherite
- zeunwrite
Etymology of ZEUNERITE
The word zeunerite traces its etymology back to the German mineralogist Franz Karl Achard von Zeuner. Zeuner discovered the mineral and named it after himself, hence deriving the term zeunerite.
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