sádrovce

Sádrovce, also known as gypsum, is a soft sulfate mineral composed of hydrated calcium sulfate with the chemical formula CaSO4·2H2O. It occurs in nature as a crystalline or fibrous mineral. The name "gypsum" is derived from the Greek word gypsos, meaning plaster. Gypsum is a common mineral found in sedimentary rock formations, particularly in salt flats and in association with evaporite deposits. It can also form in caves as speleothems, such as cave popcorn.

The mineral is typically white or colorless, though impurities can give it various colors like gray, yellow, or brown. Sádrovce is known for its low Mohs hardness of 2, making it easily scratched by a fingernail. It possesses a perfect cleavage in one direction, meaning it can be easily split into thin sheets.

When heated, gypsum loses its water molecules, transforming into plaster of Paris (CaSO4·½H2O). This hemihydrate form is highly reactive with water, rehydrating and hardening rapidly, which makes it a crucial material in construction, sculpting, and various industrial applications. Historically, gypsum has been used for centuries as a building material, notably in ancient Rome and Egypt. Its widespread availability and useful properties ensure its continued importance in modern society.