Goethít

Goethít is a mineral composed of iron oxyhydroxide, with the chemical formula FeO(OH). It is a common constituent of iron ores and is often found in association with other iron-bearing minerals like hematite and magnetite. Goethít is known for its characteristic earthy to fibrous appearance and typically occurs in shades of brown, yellow, or reddish-brown. Its hardness is generally between 4 and 5.5 on the Mohs scale, and it has a relatively high specific gravity.

This mineral forms through the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals, often in humid environments and at relatively low temperatures and pressures. It is a significant component of lateritic soils, which are rich in iron and aluminum and are found in tropical and subtropical regions. Goethít also occurs in sedimentary deposits and as a secondary mineral in various rock types. Industrially, goethít is an important source of iron, although it is typically processed along with other iron ores. It has also found applications in pigment production due to its stable coloration. The mineral was named after the German poet and writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.