QUESTION – 2
Maximum: 600 words
(a) The following raw microprobe data was obtained from the analysis of four common sulphide and related minerals. Calculate the mineral formula in each case (show calculations) and, taking into account possible elemental substitutions, name the minerals (refer to mindat.org). The number of atoms for each calculation is shown below each analysis.
(b) Comment on the economic potential of each mineral and the possible environmental significance of contained elements (including trace and minor elements) in some of the analyses.