Chalcopyrite is closely related to that of zinc blende ZnS (sphalerite). The unit cell is twice as large, reflecting an alternation of Cu and Fe ions replacing Zn ions in adjacent cells. In contrast to the pyrite structure chalcopyrite has single S sulfide anions rather than disulfide pairs. Another difference is that the iron cation is not diamagnetic low spin Fe(II) as in pyrite. Copper metal can be extracted from the roasting of chalcopyrite, as shown in the following reaction: Although if roasted partially it produces and . Chalcopyrite Chalcopyrite ( ) is a copper iron sulfide mineral that crystallizes in
Ore genesis classified hydrothermal deposits as "hypothermal", "mesothermal", "epithermal", and "telethermal". Epithermal deposits are hydrothermal ore deposits formed at low temperatures (50-200 °C) near the Earth´s surface (<1500 m), that fill veins, breccias, and stockworks. The age of formation of epithermal deposits in México is currently being investigated. "As they require the conjunction of specific environmental conditions to form, particular mineral deposit types tend to occupy specific geodynamic niches," therefore, this page has been organised by metal commodity. It is also possible to organise theories the other way, namely according to geological criteria of formation. Often ores of the same metal can