How Do You Spell FUENZALIDAITE?

Pronunciation: [fjˈuːənzˌalɪdˌe͡ɪt] (IPA)

Fuenzalidaite is a rare mineral species found in Chile. The word is pronounced as /fu.en.za.li.daɪt/ with emphasis on the second syllable (en). The spelling of the word follows the standard English phonetic rules, with the letter "z" pronounced as /z/ and the "d" and "t" sounds formed by the combination of the letters "d" and "i". The word derives its name from the discoverer, Mario Fuenzalida, and the suffix "-ite," which is commonly used to describe minerals.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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FUENZALIDAITE Meaning and Definition

  1. Fuenzalidaite is a term used in mineralogy to define a rare copper mineral. It is named after Miguel Fuenzalida, a prominent Chilean geologist who worked extensively on the mineralogy of Chile. Fuenzalidaite is classified as a complex copper molybdate hydroxide mineral that is commonly found in the oxidized zones of hydrothermal copper deposits.

    This mineral usually occurs as small, tabular or prismatic crystals that can display a vitreous to adamantine luster. Its color ranges from pale blue, green, or yellow to colorless. Fuenzalidaite has a brittle tenacity and can exhibit perfect cleavage in one direction.

    Chemically, fuenzalidaite contains copper, molybdenum, oxygen, and hydrogen, with the chemical formula Cu2Mo6+O4(OH)6·3H2O. It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and is typically found as aggregates or crusts on a host rock. Fuenzalidaite has a relatively high density and is a non-fluorescent mineral.

    Although fuenzalidaite is a rare mineral, it has been found in several locations worldwide, including Chile, Argentina, Kazakhstan, and the United States. It often forms as a secondary mineral due to oxidation processes in copper-rich environments. Its unique crystal structure and chemical composition make fuenzalidaite of interest to mineral collectors, researchers, and geologists studying copper mineralization and ore deposits.

Etymology of FUENZALIDAITE

The word "fuenzalidaite" is a mineral named after Dr. Carlos M. Fuenzalida, a geologist and mineralogist from Chile. The mineral was discovered in the Pampa de Pabellón volcanic complex in Chile. The suffix "-ite" is commonly used in mineral names to indicate that it is a mineral or mineral species.