titanomagnetites

Titanomagnetites are a group of iron oxide minerals that belong to the spinel group. They are solid solutions between magnetite (Fe3O4) and ulvospinel (Fe2TiO4), with the general formula (Fe,Ti)3O4. The name "titanomagnetite" is derived from the presence of titanium (Ti) in the mineral, which substitutes for iron (Fe) in the magnetite structure. The titanium content can vary, leading to a range of compositions within the titanomagnetite series. The most common members of this series are magnetite, titanomagnetite, and ulvospinel. Titanomagnetites are significant in geology and materials science due to their magnetic properties. They are often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and are used in various applications, including in the production of magnetic materials and as a source of titanium. The magnetic properties of titanomagnetites make them useful in paleomagnetism, where they help in the study of the Earth's magnetic field over geological time.