Introduction to Olivine Olivine, a key mineral group, crystallizes with orthorhombic symmetry. Its structure consists of independent SiO4 tetrahedra linked by divalent cations in six-fold coordination. Within the (Mg,Fe)-olivines, there is a complete solid solution between magnesium-rich forsterite (Mg2SiO4) and iron-rich fayalite (Fe2SiO4). Similarly, the (Fe,Mn)-olivines form a…
Unveiling the Wonders of Titanite (Sphene) Titanite, also known as sphene, is a fascinating mineral with the chemical formula CaTiSiO4. This widespread accessory mineral is found in a variety of geological environments, making it a subject of great interest to mineralogists and geologists. Let's explore the intriguing world…
Introduction to Zircon (Zr[SiO4]) Zircon is a fascinating and essential mineral, commonly found as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks. Due to its exceptional hardness and poor cleavage, zircon often survives multiple cycles of weathering and sedimentation, making it a crucial detrital mineral in sedimentary rocks. Zircon has…
Causes of the North Butte Mining Disaster of 1917 The North Butte Mining Disaster of 1917, also known as the Speculator Mine disaster, was primarily caused by a fire that broke out in the mine. The fire started when a carbide lamp ignited a pile of oil-soaked waste,…
History of the Dawson Mine Located in the New Mexico wilderness, Dawson thrived as a company town, its lifeblood pumped by the coal mines of the Phelps Dodge Corporation. Yet, a horrific event would forever etch Dawson's name in mining history's tragic ledger. On a fateful October afternoon…
Springhill Mine Disaster Cause he Springhill Mine Disaster refers to three different mining disasters that occurred in the coal mines of Springhill, Nova Scotia. The most notable disaster occurred on October 23, 1958, and was caused by a "bump," which is a seismic event resulting from the collapse…
Beaconsfield Mine Collapse 2006 Survivor Stories The Beaconsfield Mine collapse occurred on April 25, 2006, in Tasmania, Australia. The collapse resulted in the deaths of one miner, Larry Knight, and the entrapment of two miners, Todd Russell and Brant Webb, who were rescued after 14 days. Their survival…