Pyrokseenityyppejä

Pyrokseenityyppejä refers to the classification of pyroxenes, a group of inosilicate minerals. Pyroxenes are characterized by their single-chain silicate structure. They are commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and are important rock-forming minerals. The classification is primarily based on their chemical composition, which dictates their crystal structure and physical properties.

The two main divisions of pyroxenes are orthopyroxenes and clinopyroxenes. Orthopyroxenes crystallize in the orthorhombic crystal system, while clinopyroxenes crystallize in the monoclinic crystal system. This difference in crystal structure arises from subtle variations in the arrangement of the silicate chains and the cations that occupy the interstitial sites.

Within these two main groups, further subdivisions are made based on the dominant cation occupying the M1 and M2 sites in the crystal structure. For example, in orthopyroxenes, minerals like enstatite (magnesium iron silicate) and ferrosilite (iron silicate) are common. Clinopyroxenes include minerals such as diopside (calcium magnesium silicate), hedenbergite (calcium iron silicate), and augite, which is a more complex solid solution series. The presence of elements like aluminum, sodium, and titanium can also lead to a wide variety of pyroxene types, often forming solid solution series between end-member compositions. Understanding these pyrokseenityyppejä is crucial for petrologists studying rock formation and evolution.