Chemical Composition of Mica Group Minerals
Mica group minerals are hydrous potassium, aluminum, magnesium, or iron phyllosilicates with a layered structure. Their general chemical formula is:
```
(X,Y)2-3O10(OH,F)2
```
- X: Large cations (K+, Na+, Ca2+, Ba2+)
- Y: Smaller cations (Al3+, Mg2+, Fe2+, Fe3+)
Properties of Mica Group Minerals
- Basal Cleavage: Crystals cleave easily into thin, flexible sheets.
- Hardness: Typically 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Vitreous to pearly.
- Color: Varies depending on the cation present.
- Transparency: Transparent to opaque.
Examples of Mica Group Minerals
1. Muscovite (White Mica)
- Chemical Formula: KAl2(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2
- Color: Grayish white, colorless, or pale green
- Examples: Railroad track ballast, insulation material, lubricants
2. Biotite (Black Mica)
- Chemical Formula: K(Mg,Fe)3(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Examples: Roofing tiles, firebricks, insulation material
3. Phlogopite (Brown Mica)
- Chemical Formula: KMg3(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2
- Color: Brownish yellow to copper-colored
- Examples: Electrical insulation, paint filler, roofing granules
4. Lepidolite (Lithium Mica)
- Chemical Formula: K(Li,Al)3(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2
- Color: Pale pink to purple
- Examples: Lithium ore, gemstones
5. Zinnwaldite (Lithium-Iron Mica)
- Chemical Formula: KFe2(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2
- Color: Brownish red to deep red
- Examples: Lithium ore, gemstones