| Element | % | | Oxide | % |
| O | 21.24 | | | |
| Sn | 78.76 | | SnO2 | 100.00 |
|
|
|
| Sum | 100.0 | | Sum | 100.0 |
|
|  | |
| 200 µ m
| |
|
This is a reflected light micrograph of polished, carbon coated synthetic
cassiterite (tin oxide) crystals.
The identifying etched label, which is a feature
of our standards, is invaluable for navigating in an electron beam instrument.
Cassiterite is a very hard mineral which resists abrasion, hence
its occurrence in placer ore deposits, and the slightly raised and
rounded surfaces of the crystals in this image. No danger of this
stuff getting scratched! An excellent standard for tin, for which
it is the main ore, Its name means tin in Greek.
|