CARNALLITE Meaning and
Definition
-
Carnallite is a mineral and naturally occurring double salt that belongs to the class of halides. Its chemical formula is KCl·MgCl2·6H2O, indicating that it consists of potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, and six water molecules. The name "carnallite" is derived from the Latin word "carnallia," which means flesh color, alluding to its pinkish to reddish coloration.
Carnallite typically forms as an evaporite mineral in arid regions, especially in salt deposits and marine environments. It often occurs as crystalline aggregates or granular masses, and its crystals are usually cubic or prismatic in shape. It has a Mohs hardness of approximately 2.5, making it a relatively soft mineral.
One of the distinguishing features of carnallite is its characteristic smell of chlorine when crushed, which is attributed to the release of the chloride ions it contains. Additionally, it is highly soluble in water, easily dissolving and forming saline solutions.
Beyond its occurrence in nature, carnallite also has various applications in industrial processes. It is a significant source of potassium and magnesium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth. It is also used in the production of fertilizers, as an ingredient in de-icing products, and in the treatment of wastewater. Moreover, carnallite has been utilized as a source of magnesium and potassium in the production of specialty glass, as well as an ingredient in the manufacturing of certain chemicals.
Common Misspellings for CARNALLITE
- xarnallite
- varnallite
- farnallite
- darnallite
- czrnallite
- csrnallite
- cwrnallite
- cqrnallite
- caenallite
- cadnallite
- cafnallite
- catnallite
- ca5nallite
- ca4nallite
- carballite
- carmallite
- carjallite
- carhallite
- carnzllite
Etymology of CARNALLITE
The word "carnallite" comes from the Latin word "carnis" meaning "flesh" and the Greek word "lithos" meaning "stone". The word was coined in the mid-19th century by the German mineralogist and geologist Rudolf Hermann. The name "carnallite" reflects its characteristic pinkish color and its composition, which often contains potassium and magnesium, elements associated with animal flesh.
Similar spelling words for CARNALLITE
- carnelian,
- Carnell,
- carnality,
- Carnley,
- carmelite,
- carneal,
- carnal abuse,
- carnally,
- carnalise,
- carinal,
- carnalize.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
