Carnotite

Radioactive

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Carnotite-BYU

Carnotite is a potassium uranium vanadate mineral with chemical formula K2(UO2)2(VO4)2·3H2O. This mineral is a radioactive, yellow to green mineral, which is an important ore of uranium. It also contains significant amounts of vanadium, making it valuable in the production of certain alloys. Carnotite is named after the French engineer and inventor Marie-Adolphe Carnot (1839–1920).

Occurrence

Carnotite is found in sedimentary rocks and sandstone deposits, often in association with uranium and vanadium ores. It is typically formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of uranium-bearing deposits. Major deposits of carnotite have been found in the Colorado Plateau of the United States, particularly in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. Other notable locations include Kazakhstan, Canada, and a few regions in Africa.

Properties

Carnotite is known for its bright yellow to lemon-yellow color, which is due to its uranium content. It has a pearly to dull luster and leaves a yellow streak. The mineral is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of about 2 to 3. It is also highly radioactive, a property that has led to its use as a uranium ore.

Uses

The primary use of carnotite is as an ore of uranium, which is used as fuel in nuclear reactors and in the manufacture of nuclear weapons. The vanadium extracted from carnotite is used in producing rust-resistant, spring, and high-speed tool steels. Due to its radioactivity, carnotite has also been used in some scientific and industrial applications, such as in the calibration of radiation detection equipment.

Safety

Handling of carnotite, like other uranium ores, requires precautions to minimize exposure to its radioactivity. This includes the use of protective gear and proper storage and disposal methods to protect human health and the environment.

See also

• Uranium mining
• Vanadium
• Ore
• Radioactivity