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Yttrotungstite-(Y)
David Hospital·CC BY-SA 4.0·Wikimedia

Yttrotungstite-(Y)

Y(W,Fe,Si,Al,Ti)2(O,OH,H2O)9
Monoclinic IMA approved

Yttrotungstite-(Y) is a rare mineral with the chemical formula Y(W,Fe,Si,Al,Ti)2(O,OH,H2O)9. It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and is classified in the Strunz system as 4.FD.20 and in the Dana system as 49.3.3.2. The mineral is characterized by its complex composition, incorporating yttrium, tungsten, iron, silicon, aluminum, and titanium in a hydrated framework. It typically exhibits a dull to earthy luster and may display a range of colors depending on its impurities. As a rare mineral, it is of interest primarily to mineralogists and collectors due to its unique chemical structure and classification.

Composition

Composizione (% in peso)
W
O
Y
  • WTungsten61.2%
  • OOxygen24.0%
  • YYttrium14.8%

Overview

Yttrotungstite-(Y) is a rare mineral with the chemical formula Y(W,Fe,Si,Al,Ti)2(O,OH,H2O)9. It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and is classified in the Strunz system as 4.FD.20 and in the Dana system as 49.3.3.2. The mineral is characterized by its complex composition, incorporating yttrium, tungsten, iron, silicon, aluminum, and titanium in a hydrated framework. It typically exhibits a dull to earthy luster and may display a range of colors depending on its impurities. As a rare mineral, it is of interest primarily to mineralogists and collectors due to its unique chemical structure and classification.

Etymology

The name yttrotungstite-(Y) is derived from its chemical composition, which includes yttrium and tungsten. The suffix -(Y) indicates the dominant rare earth element in the mineral's structure.

How to recognize it

Yttrotungstite-(Y) can be identified through its unique chemical composition and crystal system. It is typically soft, with a hardness that is not explicitly stated but is expected to be low due to its hydrated structure. The mineral may exhibit a dull to earthy luster and a color that varies with impurities. Its density is not specified, but its composition suggests a moderate to high density. It is easily distinguishable from similar minerals due to its rare composition and monoclinic crystal system.

Trivia

Yttrotungstite-(Y) is notable for its complex chemical formula, which includes multiple elements such as yttrium, tungsten, iron, silicon, aluminum, and titanium. It is a rare mineral with a unique classification in both the Strunz and Dana systems. The mineral's name is directly derived from its chemical composition, which is uncommon for many minerals.

Frequently asked questions

Yttrotungstite-(Y) is considered a rare mineral, primarily due to its specific chemical composition and limited occurrences in nature.