Thermonatrite

Naturally occurring mineral
1+1⁄2LustreVitreousDiaphaneityTransparentSpecific gravity2.255 (measured on synthetic crystal)Optical propertiesBiaxial (−)Refractive indexnα = 1.420 nβ = 1.506 nγ = 1.524Birefringenceδ = 0.1042V angle48° (measured)SolubilitySoluble in waterOther characteristicsReadily dehydratesReferences[2][3][4]

Thermonatrite is a naturally occurring evaporite mineral form of sodium carbonate, Na2CO3·H2O.[2][3]

It was first described in 1845.[4] Its name is from the Greek θερμός thermos, "heat", plus natron, because it may be a dehydration product of natron.[3]

Typical occurrence is in dry saline lake beds and as soil encrustations. It has been reported from volcanic fumaroles and in association with carbonatite-related veins. Common associated minerals include trona, natron and halite.[2]

See also


References

  1. ^ Warr, L.N. (2021). "IMA–CNMNC approved mineral symbols". Mineralogical Magazine. 85 (3): 291–320. Bibcode:2021MinM...85..291W. doi:10.1180/mgm.2021.43. S2CID 235729616.
  2. ^ a b c Handbook of Mineralogy
  3. ^ a b c Mindat data
  4. ^ a b Webmineral data


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