Epäsilikaattimineraaleja

Epäsilikaattimineraalit constitute a broad category of minerals that, unlike silicates, do not contain silicon-oxygen tetrahedra as their fundamental structural unit. This classification encompasses a significant portion of the mineral kingdom and includes a diverse array of chemical compositions and crystal structures.

The most prominent group within the non-silicates is the oxides, characterized by the presence of oxygen as the dominant anion, often bonded to a metal cation. Examples include common minerals like hematite (Fe2O3) and magnetite (Fe3O4), which are important iron ores. Another major group is the sulfides, where sulfur is the primary anion, frequently combined with metals. Pyrite (FeS2), known as "fool's gold," and galena (PbS), a principal lead ore, are well-known examples.

The carbonates form another significant class, featuring the carbonate ion (CO3)2- as their defining feature. Calcite (CaCO3), a ubiquitous mineral found in limestone and marble, and dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) are prime examples. Halides, containing halide ions such as chloride or fluoride, are also part of this group, with halite (NaCl), common table salt, being a familiar instance.

Other important non-silicate mineral groups include sulfates, with the sulfate ion (SO4)2-, such as gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O); phosphates, containing the phosphate ion (PO4)3-, like apatite; and native elements, which occur in their pure elemental form, such as gold (Au) and copper (Cu). These minerals play vital roles in various geological processes and are essential resources for human industry and society.