2006-07-27 18:58:58 · 5 answers · asked by owipap 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Other - Education
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zircon
2006-07-27 19:08:21 · answer #1 · answered by ♥Hina♥ 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Commercially, zircons are mined for the metal zirconium which is used for abrasive and insulating purposes. It is the source of zirconium oxide , one of the most refractory materials known. Crucibles of ZrO are used to fuse platinum at temperatures in excess of 1755 oC. Zirconium metal is used in nuclear reactors due to its neutron absorption properties. Large specimens are appreciated as gemstones, owing to their high refractive index (zircon has a refractive index of around 1.95, diamond around 2.4). The color of zircons that do not have gem quality can be changed by heat treatment. Depending on the amount of heat applied, colorless, blue and golden-yellow zircons can be made.
2006-07-27 19:01:16 · answer #2 · answered by green egg 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is used in nuclear reactors for insulating purposes. It is also abrasive and has uses in this area.
2006-07-27 19:04:12 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Allergy's...tom science
2006-07-27 19:01:51 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Oh My Gosh Don't You Ever SAy That Word Agian........!!!!!!!
2006-07-27 19:01:33 · answer #5 · answered by ( ((G-Force)) ) 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋