barite group

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barite group

mineralogy

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structure and properties

In mineral: Sulfates
Members of the barite group constitute the most important and common anhydrous sulfates. They have orthorhombic symmetry with large divalent cations bonded to the sulfate ion. In barite (BaSO₄), each barium ion is surrounded by 12 closest oxygen ions belonging to seven distinct SO₄ groups. Anhydrite (CaSO₄) exhibits…
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polyhalite

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polyhalite

mineral

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Article History

Related Topics:: sulfate mineral

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polyhalite, a sulfate mineral in evaporite deposits [K₂Ca₂Mg(SO₄)₄·2H₂O] that often occurs with anhydrite and halite. Its name, from the Greek words meaning “many salts,” reflects its composition, hydrated sulfates of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. It makes up 7 percent of the rock in the salt deposits at Stassfurt, Ger., and is also abundant in the salt deposits of the Saratov region of Russia, where certain beds consist of 85 percent polyhalite. The Texas–New Mexico potash region is another noteworthy locality. For detailed physical properties, see sulfate mineral (table).

This article was most recently revised and updated by John P. Rafferty.