Kainite
A variety of Minerals

What is Kainite?
Kainite (/ˈkaɪnaɪt/ or /ˈkeɪnaɪt/) (KMg(SO4)Cl·3H2O) is an evaporite mineral in the class of "Sulfates (selenates, etc.) with additional anions, with H2O" according to the Nickel–Strunz classification. It is a hydrated potassium-magnesium sulfate-chloride, naturally occurring in irregular granular masses or as crystalline coatings in cavities or fissures. This mineral is dull and soft, and is colored white, yellowish, grey, reddish, or blue to violet. Its name is derived from Greek καινος [kainos] ("(hitherto) unknown"), as it was the first mineral discovered that contained both sulfate and chloride as anions. Kainite forms monoclinic crystals.
Uses & Applications
Kainite is used as a source of potassium and magnesium compounds, as a fertilizer, and as gritting salt.
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Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Kainite
Kainite is of bitter taste and soluble in water. On recrystallization picromerite is deposited from the solution.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless; yellow, brownish, greyish-green, red, violet, blue; colourless in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 2.24 g/cm³
- Streak
- white
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- KMg(SO4)Cl · 3H2O
- Elements
- Cl, H, K, Mg, O, S
Also Known As

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