Calcite

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Open the Crystal Structures Library on the CrystalMaker disc, and click on Minerals > Non-Silicates > Carbonates > Calcite.

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Click on the CALCITE file in the XtalDraw folder.

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Go to Crystal Structures (more info) and choose "Calcite lattice", which is listed under "Some common non-cubic lattices". This resource is currently off-line. Please check back at a later date.

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Questions

1. What is the coordination number of C in calcite? Why does it not have a higher CN?
2. What is the radius ratio (cation/anion) for calcite?
3. How are the Ca atoms and carbonate complexes arranged in the calcite structure?
4. Look down the axis of the rhomb (body diagonal). What is the symmetry? Is this consistent with the bond angles in the carbonate complexes?