MCQ Detailed View

Galena is the natural mineral form of lead sulfide and is the most important ore of lead. Its chemical formula is PbS, consisting of lead (Pb²⁺) cations and sulfide (S²⁻) anions in a 1:1 ratio. Galena has a cubic crystal structure and is known for its metallic luster and high density.

Galena occurs widely in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks. It often contains traces of silver, which can be extracted as a byproduct. Its high density and metallic appearance make it easy to identify. The mineral is soft, with a Mohs hardness of 2.5, and exhibits perfect cubic cleavage.

Other sulfide minerals are different from galena. HgS (cinnabar) is the main ore of mercury, As₂S₃ (orpiment) is an arsenic sulfide, and FeS₂ (pyrite) is iron disulfide, often called fool’s gold. Unlike these, PbS specifically contains lead, making it unique as a lead source.

Galena is important in industrial chemistry for producing lead, which is used in batteries, shielding from radiation, and various alloys. Understanding the chemical formula of Galena is essential in inorganic chemistry for the study of ores, extraction methods, and metal chemistry.

The 1:1 stoichiometry of Pb and S in Galena also demonstrates ionic compound formation between metal cations and non-metal anions. Studying minerals like Galena helps students learn about coordination, crystallography, and practical applications of inorganic compounds.