Apatite
Apatite
Apatite (/ˈæpətaɪt/; from the Greek word ἀπατάω, meaning "I deceive") is a group of phosphate minerals, usually referring to hydroxylapatite, fluorapatite, and chlorapatite, named for high concentrations of OH−, F−, and Cl− ions, respectively, in the crystal.
Etymology
The term "apatite" is derived from the Greek word ἀπατάω (apatáo), which means "I deceive". This is due to the mineral's deceptive similarity to other more valuable minerals such as Olivine, Peridot, and Beryl.
Types of Apatite
- Hydroxylapatite - Apatite in which the dominant anion is hydroxide.
- Fluorapatite - Apatite in which the dominant anion is fluoride.
- Chlorapatite - Apatite in which the dominant anion is chloride.
Uses
Apatite is a source of phosphorus for the production of fertilizers. Due to its radioactive nature, it is also used in radiometric dating.
Related Terms
- Phosphate Minerals - A group of minerals that contain the tetrahedrally coordinated phosphate (PO4) anion along with the freely substituting arsenate (AsO4) and vanadate (VO4).
- Mineralogy - The study of minerals, including their distribution, identification, and properties.
- Crystallography - The science that examines the arrangement of atoms in solids.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Apatite
- Wikipedia's article - Apatite
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