The chemical formula for adamite is Zn₂(AsO₄)(OH).
Adamite is a distinct mineral often found in the oxidized zones of zinc and arsenic ore deposits. This mineral is recognized as a zinc arsenate hydroxide, characterized by its precise and unique chemical composition.
Chemical Formula of Adamite
The definitive chemical formula for adamite is Zn₂(AsO₄)(OH). This formula precisely outlines the atomic components that form the mineral's structure:
- Zn: Represents Zinc, a metallic element. The subscript '2' indicates that there are two zinc atoms present for each arsenate and hydroxide group in the mineral's formula unit.
- AsO₄: This is the arsenate group, a polyatomic ion consisting of one arsenic atom chemically bonded to four oxygen atoms. This group is fundamental to adamite's classification as an arsenate mineral.
- OH: Denotes the hydroxide group, which comprises one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom. The inclusion of this group signifies that adamite is a hydrous mineral, containing water in the form of hydroxide ions.
This specific combination and arrangement of elements give adamite its characteristic crystalline structure and various physical properties.
Elemental Composition and Molecular Weight
Understanding adamite's elemental composition provides further insight into its chemical makeup and relative proportions of its constituent elements.
| Component | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 286.71 grams per mole |
| Zinc (Zn) | 45.61 % (56.78 % as ZnO) |
| Arsenic (As) | 26.13 % (40.08 % as As₂O₅) |
- Zinc: Makes up a substantial percentage of adamite's total mass, reflecting its common occurrence in environments rich in zinc.
- Arsenic: Is a key component within the arsenate group, central to the mineral's designation and chemical identity.
This detailed compositional breakdown is essential for scientists and researchers in mineralogy for studying adamite's formation, occurrences, and overall characteristics.
