Sulfidit

Sulfidit is the term used in several languages (including German) for sulfide minerals, the chemical compounds in which sulfur is present as the sulfide ion (S2−) bonded to metal or semi-metal elements. Most common sulfides are binary compounds of a metal with sulfur, but more complex sulfide minerals also occur.

The general composition is expressed as MS or MxSy, where M is a metal or semi-metal and S is sulfur. The bonding is typically ionic with varying covalent character, producing opaque minerals with metallic luster. Color and hardness vary by composition.

Sulfidit minerals form in a range of geological settings, especially hydrothermal veins around magmatic intrusions, magmatic sulfide deposits, and low- to high-temperature hydrothermal systems. They occur in layered intrusions, volcanic-associated deposits, and sedimentary exhalites.

Economically important sulfides are major ore minerals for several metals, notably copper (chalcopyrite, bornite), zinc (sphalerite), lead (galena), and nickel (pentlandite). They can also host platinum-group elements in some deposits. They are extracted and processed to produce concentrates and refined metals.

Sulfides differ from sulfates in chemistry and oxidation state: sulfides contain S2− with metals, while sulfates contain the sulfate group SO4^2−. Sulfide minerals can release toxic hydrogen sulfide gas when altered or mined in oxidizing conditions.

Common examples include pyrite (FeS2), galena (PbS), sphalerite (ZnS), chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), bornite (Cu5FeS4), and cinnabar (HgS).

In mining and economic geology, sulfide deposits are a major focus due to their metal content, but handling requires care to avoid sulfide dust and gas emissions.