Tarapacaite

Tarapacáite
General
Category Sulfate minerals
Formula
(repeating unit)
K2(CrO4)
Strunz classification 7.FA.05
Dana classification 35.2.1.1.1 Anhydrous chromates
Crystal system Orthorhombic
Crystal class Dipyramidal (mmm)
H-M symbol: (2/m 2/m 2/m)
Identification
Color bright yellow, yellow-orange
Crystal habit thick tabular
Cleavage distinct/ good
On {001} and {010}, distinct
Diaphaneity transparent
Specific gravity 2.735
Solubility soluble in water
Other characteristics Health risks: contains the carcinogenic and mutagenic chromate ion
References [1]

Tarapacáite is the mineral form of potassium chromate with the chemical formula K2CrO4. It forms bright yellow crystals and was discovered in 1878. It is named for the former Tarapacá Province, Peru; nowadays belonging to Chile. The boundaries between Peru, Bolivia and Chile were vague in the Atacama Desert before the War of the Pacific (1879–1883). Its type locality is Oficina Maria Elena, Maria Elena, Tocopilla Province, Antofagasta Region, Chile. It is unlikely to occur anywhere except in highly arid conditions as it is easily soluble in water.[1][2][3]

References


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