If you are fascinated by the hidden structures of our planet, you have likely come across
BUTTGENBACHITE. This mineral is a compelling subject for study, offering a unique glimpse into the complex chemistry that shapes the Earth’s crust.Whether you are a student identifying a hand sample, a researcher looking for crystallographic data, or a collector curious about a new find, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about
BUTTGENBACHITE. From its precise chemical formula to the geological environments where it thrives, let’s explore what makes this mineral distinct.
The Chemistry Behind the Crystal
Every mineral tells a story through its chemistry. At its core,
BUTTGENBACHITE is defined by the chemical formula
Cu36Cl8(OH)62(NO3)2·nH2O.This isn’t just a string of letters and numbers; it represents the precise recipe of elements that nature used to build this specimen. This specific chemical composition is what gives the mineral its stability and dictates how it reacts with acids, heat, or other minerals. It is the fundamental “DNA” that geologists use to classify it within the larger mineral kingdom.
Crystallography: Geometry in Nature
One of the most beautiful aspects of mineralogy is the hidden geometry within every stone.
BUTTGENBACHITE crystallizes in the
Hexagonal system.Think of this as the mineral’s architectural blueprint. It dictates the symmetry and the angles at which the crystal faces grow. Digging deeper into its symmetry, it falls under the
Dihexagonal dipyramidal.
- Point Group: 6/m 2/m 2/m
- Space Group: P63/mmc
Why does this matter? These crystallographic details are like a fingerprint. They influence optical properties—how light travels through the crystal—and physical traits like how it breaks or cleaves when struck.
Internal Structure and Unit Cell
If we could zoom in to the atomic level, we would see the “Unit Cell”—the smallest repeating box of atoms that builds up the entire crystal. For
BUTTGENBACHITE, the dimensions of this microscopic building block are:
a=15.75Å, c=9.16Å, Z=2
The internal arrangement of these atoms is described as:
Halides are ionically bonded compounds of cations Na1+, Ca2+, etc. & halogen anions F1-, Cl1-, Br1-, I1-; oxy-halides, hydroxyhalides & related double halides with Cu, etc. w/o Pb; corner- & edge-sharing Cu(OH,Cl, H2O)6 octahedra form 3-D framework with linear bldg units & broad channels // [0001]; channels contain [NO3]1- ions; Cu2+- centered octahedra tend to be strongly distorted due to Jahn-Teller effect; distortion gen causes elongation along [4]-axis, resulting in coordination exemplified by Cu(OH)4Cl2.1 Structure is not completely ordered; it consists of rigid 3-D skeleton formed by Cu coordination polyhedra sharing edges & corners; large channels in framework show zeolite-like nature; inside channels disorder is caused by diff orientations of nitrate grp & by occurrence of substitution 2(NO3)2-<=>Cl-; structure is related to that of connellite.2 See “Additional Structures” tab for entry(s).3This internal structure is the invisible framework that supports everything we see on the outside, from the mineral’s density to its hardness.
Physical Appearance (Habit)
When you find
BUTTGENBACHITE in the field, what does it actually look like? A mineral’s “habit” describes its typical shape and growth pattern.
- Common Habit: Hexagonal, acicular crystals,striated; as isolated crystals, radiating groups, felted crystal aggregates
- Twinning:
Twinning is a fascinating phenomenon where two or more crystals grow interlocked in a specific symmetrical pattern. If BUTTGENBACHITE exhibits twinning, it can be a dead giveaway for identification, distinguishing it from look-alike minerals.
Where is it Found? (Geologic Occurrence)
Minerals are the products of their environment. They don’t just appear anywhere; they need specific conditions—pressure, temperature, and chemical ingredients—to form.
Geologic Occurrence:
Secondary mineral in oxidized portions of Cu-deposits; nitrate may be biological originKnowing this context helps geologists reconstruct the history of a rock formation. It tells us whether the rock was born from cooling magma, settled in an ancient ocean, or was transformed by the intense heat and pressure of metamorphism. For more broad geological context, resources like the
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provide excellent maps and data.
Related Minerals
No mineral exists in a vacuum.
BUTTGENBACHITE is often related to other species, either through similar chemistry or structure.
Relationship Data:
Forms series with connelliteUnderstanding these relationships is key. It helps us see the “family tree” of the mineral world, showing how different elements can substitute for one another to create an entirely new species with similar properties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the chemical formula of BUTTGENBACHITE?The standard chemical formula for BUTTGENBACHITE is
Cu36Cl8(OH)62(NO3)2·nH2O. This defines its elemental composition.
2. Which crystal system does BUTTGENBACHITE belong to?BUTTGENBACHITE crystallizes in the
Hexagonal system. Its internal symmetry is further classified under the Dihexagonal dipyramidal class.
3. How is BUTTGENBACHITE typically found in nature?The “habit” or typical appearance of BUTTGENBACHITE is described as
Hexagonal, acicular crystals,striated; as isolated crystals, radiating groups, felted crystal aggregates. This refers to the shape the crystals take when they grow without obstruction.
4. In what geological environments does BUTTGENBACHITE form?BUTTGENBACHITE is typically found in environments described as:
Secondary mineral in oxidized portions of Cu-deposits; nitrate may be biological origin. This gives clues to the geological history of the area where it is discovered.
5. Are there other minerals related to BUTTGENBACHITE?Yes, it is often associated with or related to other minerals such as:
Forms series with connellite.
External Resources for Further Study
For those looking to dive deeper into the specific mineralogical data of
BUTTGENBACHITE, we recommend checking high-authority databases:
Final Thoughts
BUTTGENBACHITE is more than just a name on a list; it is a testament to the orderly and beautiful laws of nature. With a chemical backbone of
Cu36Cl8(OH)62(NO3)2·nH2O and a structure defined by the
Hexagonal system, it holds a specific and important place in the study of mineralogy.We hope this overview has helped clarify the essential data points for this specimen. Whether for academic study or personal interest, understanding these properties brings us one step closer to understanding the Earth itself.
