Question

Explain how nonmetal resources such as halite and gypsum form.

Answer 1

Answer:

Halite:

Halite a can be found in sedimentary rock. This mineral resource formed in ancient seas and salt lakes. This type of mineral is formed in an area where the climate is arid as water evaporated in these seas. Overtime as sea water evaporated, halted were formed

Gypsum:

Gypsum is formed in lagoons. This mineral contains, oxygen, sulphur, calcium and also water. When there is evaporation, oxygen and sulphur will have a reaction with themselves to produce sulfate. Now this sulfate will then have a reaction with calcium and also with water and this would form gypsum. Gypsum is mostly related to rock salt and also deposit of sulfur.

Answer 2

Answer:

Halite:

The above-named is a water-soluble, naturally occurring mineral is usually found in arid and semi-arid topography. It is formed as water with high mineral salt contents evaporates.

As the water evaporates, the minerals crystalize into a rock-like form. One important point to note is that they are found chiefly among sedimentary rocks. They aren't sedimentary in nature but are called evaporites due to their process of formation.

Halite is used for several things which include but are not limited to

1. Food seasoning
2. Food preservation
3. Medicinal purposes
4. Household cleaning
5. Livestock nutrition etc

Gypsum:

Gypsum is a prehistoric mineral whose formation is still on going today. It is easily identifiable as a rock that is whitish-grey, soft like chalk. It is naturally occurring and can be classified as a sedimentary rock.  

Oxygen, sulfur, calcium and water and the minerals required for the formation of Gypsum.  

Gypsum also belongs to the class of minierals called evaporites because it is formed as water evaporates. When the water evaporates, oxygen reacts with sulphur to form Sulphate ($SO4_{2}$).

The Sulphate in turn reacts with calcium and water to form Gypsum.

Gypsum is used in the make and manufacturing of:

1. Wall board
2. Soil conditioner
3. Cement
4. Calcium suppliment for human consumption
5. Toothpastes (It is used as a binder)

Cheers!

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