Epäsilikaattiryhmiä

Epäsilikaattiryhmiä is a Finnish term that translates to "non-silicate groups" in English. In the context of mineralogy and geology, it refers to mineral groups that do not contain silicon as a primary structural component. This contrasts with the vast majority of rock-forming minerals, which are silicates. Non-silicate minerals encompass a diverse range of chemical compositions and crystal structures.

Common examples of non-silicate mineral groups include oxides, sulfides, sulfates, carbonates, halides, and native elements. Oxides, such as hematite (Fe2O3) and magnetite (Fe3O4), contain oxygen as the dominant anion. Sulfides, like pyrite (FeS2) and galena (PbS), are characterized by the presence of sulfur. Sulfates typically contain the sulfate ion (SO4^2-), with gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) being a well-known example. Carbonates, featuring the carbonate ion (CO3^2-), include minerals like calcite (CaCO3) and dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2). Halides, such as halite (NaCl), are formed with halogen elements like chlorine, fluorine, or bromine. Native elements are minerals composed of a single element, such as gold (Au) or copper (Cu).

These non-silicate minerals play crucial roles in various geological processes and are often economically important as sources of metals and other resources. Their identification and classification are fundamental to understanding Earth's mineral wealth and history.