General Information:
Chemical Formula:
(Ca,Na,U)2(Ti,Nb,Ta)2O6(OH)
Composition:
(Molecular Weight = 297.19 gm)
Sodium 4.64 % Na
Calcium 16.18 % Ca
Uranium 16.02 % U
Tantalum 6.09 % Ta
Titanium 9.67 % Ti
Niobium 9.38 % Nb
Hydrogen 0.34 % H
Oxygen 37.68 % O
Empirical Formula:
Ca1.2Na0.6U0.2Ti0.6Nb0.3Ta0.1O6(OH)
IMA Status:
Approved IMA 1961
Locality:
Betafo, Malagasy Republic.
Name Origin:
Named after its locality.
Physical Properties:
Cleavage:
None
Color:
brown, black, brownish green, yellow, or greenish black.
Density:
3.7 - 5, Average = 4.34
Diaphaniety:
Translucent to Opaque
Habits:
Encrustations - Forms crust-like aggregates on matrix., Massive - Granular - Common texture observed in granite and other igneous rock.,
Hardness:
5-5.5 - Apatite-Knife Blade
Luster:
Vitreous - Greasy
Streak:
yellowish white
More details...