What Is the Chemical Formula of Bornite?

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SUMMARY

The chemical formula of bornite is Cu5FeS4, as stated in Wikipedia. However, other sources, including a textbook and Spirit of Isis, suggest alternative formulas such as Cu2FeS4 and Cu3FeS2. The discussion highlights the substantial variation in the relative amounts of copper and iron in bornite, indicating that solid solutions can extend towards chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) and digenite (Cu9S5). Exsolution of chalcopyrite, digenite, and chalcocite is also common in bornite.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mineralogy and chemical formulas
  • Familiarity with copper and iron sulfide minerals
  • Knowledge of solid solution concepts in mineralogy
  • Basic comprehension of exsolution processes in geology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and applications of bornite in geology
  • Study the solid solution behavior of chalcopyrite and digenite
  • Explore the exsolution processes in sulfide minerals
  • Investigate the variations in chemical formulas of other copper sulfides
USEFUL FOR

Geologists, mineralogists, and students studying sulfide minerals and their chemical properties will benefit from this discussion.

gracy
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What's the chemical formula of bornite?According to wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bornite
it is Cu5FeS4.According to http://www.spiritofisis.org/knowledge/crystal_files/bornite.htm
it is Cu2FeS4 and as per my textbook it is Cu3FeS2.Now,What's the actual chemical formula of bornite?I am really confused.
 
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gracy said:
According to wikipedia

Never hurts to read the entire article:

"Substantial variation in the relative amounts of copper and iron is possible and solid solution extends towards chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) and digenite (Cu9S5). Exsolution of blebs and lamellae of chalcopyrite, digenite, and chalcocite is common."
 
Borek said:
Never hurts to read the entire article:
Yes.You are right.Thanks for your answer @ Borek
 

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