THE GYPSUM FAMILY The gypsum family in geology consists of calcium sulfate minerals, primarily gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O), anhydrite (CaSO₄), and
THE GYPSUM FAMILY The gypsum family in geology consists of calcium sulfate minerals, primarily gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O), anhydrite (CaSO₄), and bassanite (CaSO₄·0.5H₂O). These minerals form through evaporation of sulfate-rich waters in sedimentary environments such as lagoons, playas, and salt flats.
Gypsum is the most common, found in massive, fibrous (satin spar), or crystalline (selenite) forms.
•Anhydrite is a dehydrated form of gypsum and can convert to gypsum under humid conditions.
•Bassanite is an intermediate phase between gypsum and anhydrite.
USES Gypsum is widely used in construction (plaster, drywall) and agriculture (soil conditioner).
