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Fluorspar Research Paper

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Back in 1530, a German mineralogist first described the use of the mineral fluorspar in metal refining. It was useful because it allowed the pure metal to flow and be collected through metal ores. The ‘fluor’ in fluorspar came from the Latin word ‘fluere’ which means ‘to flow’ or ‘flux’- because this is what it has allowed metals to do. We now know this metal as calcium fluoride.

THE DISCOVERY Several chemists carried out experiments containing fluorspar in the early 1800’s. They often produced what they called fluoric acid, or what we today call hydrofluoric acid. This acid is highly reactive and can be a potentially deadly acid. Even small splashes are said to be fatal.

A chemist, by the name of Humphrey Davy, wrote that ‘fluoric’ acid …show more content…

It will also react violently with water to produce oxygen and is one of the few elements that can actually attack a diamond.
HISTORICAL USES Until World War II, no commercial product of fluorine was being produced. Although, the nuclear bomb project and energy applications made it necessary to begin producing it in large quantities. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were used in appliances such as refrigerants, air conditioning units, and freezers. They since been banned because of their contribution to ozone depletion.

HOW IT’S USED TODAY Fluorine is not used in the funeral service industry. Although, fluorine and its compounds (mainly uranium hexafluoride) are used in processing nuclear fuel. Fluorochemicals, including high temperature plastics (i.e. Teflon), are also made using fluorine. It is commonly used in the medical field as an ingredient of most chemotherapeutic drugs like 5-fluorouracil and etchant hydrofluoric acid. Compounds of Fluorine, like sodium fluoride, are used in toothpaste and in drinking water to help prevent dental cavities. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) can dissolve glass. It is used to etch the glass of light bulbs and other products like it. HF is easier and safer to transport and handle than pure fluorine. It is considered to be a weak acid at low concentrations - but will act as a strong acid in high concentrations. The element has been further studied for the use of rocket propellant - as it has a exceptionally high specific impulse

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