2007-08-24 02:36:44 · 1 answers · asked by idlevil_73 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
There are several Hydrated magnesium silicates, including talc Mg3Si4O10 (OH)2 and serpentine Mg6Si4O10(OH)8. Talc is the softest mineral, and is used in talcum powder, but the fibrous form of serpentine is chrysotile asbestos (I think this might be the answer you are looking for). Another form of asbestos is Tremolite (a calcium magnesuin hydrated silicate) - crocidolite asbestos; the most dangerous form.
Another form of hydrated magnesium silicate is the rock forming amphibole mineral Anthophyllite; Mg7Si8O22(OH)2. This is another mineral that has a fibrous form (amosite asbestos). Amphiboles have a double-chain silicate structure, and have varying amonts of iron, calcium and sodium present.
From the above, it can be seen that the asbestos minerals are various fiorms of hydrated magnesium silicates.
(Geologist)
2007-08-24 03:05:19 · answer #1 · answered by AndrewG 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋