What is the Difference Between Magnetite and Hematite?

The main difference between magnetite and hematite lies in their iron content, magnetic properties, and crystal structure. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Iron Content:

• Magnetite: Iron is present in the form of Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions.
• Hematite: Iron is present in the form of Fe³⁺ ions.

1. Magnetic Properties:

• Magnetite: Ferromagnetic, meaning it is strongly magnetic and can be attracted to a magnet.
• Hematite: Paramagnetic, meaning it is weakly magnetic and can be drawn to an external magnetic field but does not exhibit magnetic properties on its own.

1. Color and Streak:

• Magnetite: Black or brownish-black in color, with a black streak.
• Hematite: Silvery to black metallic luster, often appearing silver or metallic gray when polished, with a reddish-brown streak.

1. Crystal Structure:

• Magnetite: Isometric crystal structure, typically forming octahedral or dodecahedral crystals.
• Hematite: Trigonal crystal structure, often found in various forms such as botryoidal (grape-like clusters), reniform (kidney-shaped), and tabular crystals.

1. Hardness:

• Magnetite: Slightly harder with a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale.
• Hematite: Hardness of about 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale.

In summary, magnetite is characterized by its ferromagnetic properties, black color, octahedral crystal structure, and higher iron content compared to hematite. On the other hand, hematite is paramagnetic, has a silver or metallic gray appearance with a reddish-brown streak, a trigonal crystal structure, and slightly lower iron content compared to magnetite.

Comparative Table: Magnetite vs Hematite

Here is a table comparing the differences between magnetite and hematite:

Magnetite and hematite are both iron ores, but they have distinct characteristics that can help you differentiate between them. Magnetite is black or brownish-black in color and has a black streak, while hematite has a silvery to black metallic luster and a reddish-brown streak. Magnetite is strongly magnetic, while hematite is not. The iron in magnetite has both +2 and +3 oxidation states, while in hematite, the iron is only in the +3 oxidation state.