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Uraninite
Uraninite
Mineral Properties and Uses
What is Uraninite?
Uraninite is an oxide of uranium. It occurs in granite pegmatites, occasionally in hydrothermal veins, and less often in sandstones. It is the primary ore of uranium. It has a very high specific gravity and is radioactive. Uraninite is also known as "pitchblende".
Physical Properties of Uraninite |
| Uses |
primary ore of uranium, used to prepare fuel for nuclear reactors |
| Color |
brownish black to black |
| Streak |
brownish black, grayish |
| Luster |
submetallic to pitchlike |
| Diaphaneity |
opaque |
| Cleavage |
none |
| Mohs Hardness |
5 - 6 |
| Specific Gravity |
6.5 - 10.0 |
| Distinguishing Characteristics |
radioactivity, color, luster, specific gravity, lack of cleavage |
| Chemical Composition |
Uranium Oxide , UO2 |
| Crystal System |
isometric |
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