Chemical composition: Mg3Si4O10 (OH) 2. Ti, Ni, Fe and Mn may substitute for Mg.

Physical properties:

(i) Form: Tabular, fine-grained massive with foliaceous structure or massive granular

(ii) Colour: White, gray, apple-green.

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(iii) Lustre: Resinous, pearly, and greasy.

(iv) Streak: White.

(v) Hardness: 1, marks on a cloth.

(vi) Cleavage: Perfect 1 set.

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(vii) Fracture: Subconchoidal to uneven.

(viii) Specific gravity: 2.7 – 2.8.

(ix) Diaphaneity: Transparent to translucent.

(ix) Feel: Greasy, soapy.

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(x) Tenacity: Sectile

Use:

The most common use is in talcum powder. Talc is also used as slabs on laboratory tabletops in switchboards, paint, ceramic, rubber, insecticide, roofing, paper and foundry facings.