213k views
2 votes
Describe the mineral formulae and crystal structures of tourmaline, topaz and spodumene.

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Tourmaline, topaz, and spodumene have different mineral formulae and crystal structures.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mineral formulae and crystal structures of tourmaline, topaz, and spodumene are as follows:

Tourmaline: The mineral formula for tourmaline can vary depending on the specific composition, but the general formula is (Na,Ca)(Li,Al)3(Al,Mg)6(BO3)3(Si6O18)(OH,F)4.

Topaz: The mineral formula for topaz is Al2SiO4(F,OH)2.

Spodumene: The mineral formula for spodumene is LiAl(Si2O6)

The crystal structures of these minerals vary as well. Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral with a trigonal crystal structure. Topaz has an orthorhombic crystal structure. Spodumene has a monoclinic crystal structure.

User Vineet Bhatia
by
8.4k points