Introduction
In his article, King describes the major ore of uranium – uraninite. The author explains how uraninite received its name and remarks that due to its high radioactivity, it cannot be stored in a classroom. Further, King characterizes the chemical and mineralogical composition of uraninite and mentions that they vary depending on the levels of radioactive decay and oxidation.
Article Summary
The author gives a detailed account of the mineral’s physical properties and composition and describes its geologic occurrence. King notes that it is not a frequent case when uraninite is found in well-formed crystals. Most commonly, these crystals are octahedrons, cubes, and modified forms. The properties that help to locate uraninite in the field are its propensity to weather into yellow oxidation products and its radioactivity. To perform quick scanning of soil, rock, and core, a radiation detector is employed (King). Uraninite is reported to have a rather high specific gravity. In some specimens, it may be as high as eleven.
Due to being radioactive, uranium is constantly in the state of decay. Moreover, it is affected by oxidation, which leads to such alteration products as hydrates and oxides. King pays particular attention to describing gummite as a uraninite alteration product. The author emphasizes the significance of uraninite’s role in the discovery of radium, polonium, and uranium.
Conclusion
This article is valuable for the study of geology because it suggests a detailed description of one of the most significant minerals. The author provides a variety of examples and details to make the source informative and exciting to read. The characteristics of uraninite are presented most comprehensively, and the text is accompanied by photographs to make it easier for the reader to identify the mineral.
Work Cited
King, Hobart M. “Uraninite.” Geology.com, n.d. Web.