General Information:
Chemical Formula:
MgSO4·6(H2O)
Composition:
(Molecular Weight = 228.46 gm)
Magnesium 10.64 % Mg
Hydrogen 5.29 % H
Sulfur 14.04 % S
Oxygen 70.03 % O
Empirical Formula:
Mg(SO4)·6(H2O)
Name Origin:
Named after the number of water molecules hexa, "six" and hydor, "water."
Physical Properties:
Cleavage:
[010] Perfect, [101] Distinct
Color:
colorless, white, or greenish white.
Density:
1.76
Diaphaniety:
Opaque
Habits:
Fibrous - Crystals made up of fibers., Acicular - Occurs as needle-like crystals., Encrustations - Forms crust-like aggregates on matrix.
Hardness:
2-2.5 - Gypsum-Finger Nail
Luminescence:
None.
Luster:
Vitreous (Glassy)
Streak:
white
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