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Iron formation

A chemical sedimentary rock, typically thin-bedded and/or finely laminated, containing at least 15% iron of sedimentary origin, and commonly but not necessarily containing layers of chert. Various primary facies (usually not weathered) of iron formation are distinguished on the basis of whether the iron occurs predominantly as oxide, silicate, carbonate, or sulfide. Most iron formation is of Precambrian age. In mining usage, the term refers to a low-grade sedimentary iron ore with the iron mineral(s) segregated in 1643 bands or sheets irregularly mingled with chert or fine-grained quartz. Compare: ironstone; jaspilite. Essentially synonymous terms are itabirite; banded hematite quartzite; taconite; quartz-banded ore; banded iron formation; calico rock; jasper bar.

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iron formation
Mining; General mining; Mineral mining

A chemical sedimentary rock, typically thin-bedded and/or finely laminated, containing at least 15% iron of sedimentary origin, and commonly but not necessarily containing layers ...

banded iron formation
Mining; General mining

A rock formation that shows pronounced banding of iron rich minerals and fine grained quartz. Where mineralized the formation contains sulfide and carbonate mineral.

banded iron formation
Earth science; Geology

A sedimentary mineral deposit dominated by iron oxides, carbonates, or silicates that were deposited chemically from seawater. Most BIFs were formed between 2.5 and 3.5 billion ...

plumes and banded iron formations
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Banded iron formation (BIF) is a chemical sedimentary rock containing >15 wt% iron (Fe). Most commonly, Fe-rich layers alternate with chert, although they may also be interbedded ...

banded iron formation
Mining; General mining; Mineral mining

Iron formation that shows marked banding, generally of iron-rich minerals and chert or fine-grained quartz. Abbrev: BIF.

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