Földpát

Földpát is the Hungarian word for feldspar. Feldspars are a group of aluminosilicate minerals, containing varying amounts of potassium, sodium, and calcium. They are the most abundant mineral group in the Earth's crust, making up approximately 60% of it by weight. This abundance makes them significant in geology and related fields.

Feldspars are classified into two main groups: alkali feldspars and plagioclase feldspars. Alkali feldspars, also known as potassium feldspars, primarily contain potassium (KAlSi3O8) but can also incorporate sodium. Examples include orthoclase and microcline. Plagioclase feldspars form a solid solution series ranging from albite (NaAlSi3O8) to anorthite (CaAl2Si2O8). The ratio of sodium to calcium determines the specific mineral within the plagioclase series, such as andesine or labradorite.

These minerals are essential components of many igneous rocks like granite and basalt, as well as sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Their physical properties, such as hardness, cleavage, and luster, are important for mineral identification. In industry, feldspar is used in the production of ceramics, glass, and as a filler in paints and plastics. Its widespread occurrence and utility contribute to its importance in both natural geological processes and human applications.