Tachyhydrite is a rare and enigmatic mineral, primarily found within the Wheeler Ice Caves of Antarctica. Its formation represents a fascinating intersection of extreme conditions – intense pressure, low temperatures, and high water content – leading to a unique crystal structure unlike any other known hydrated magnesium carbonate.
Discovered in 2014, Tachyhydrite’s existence challenged existing theories about the stability of hydrated minerals under such immense pressures. Initially, researchers were skeptical, believing the mineral to be a dihydrate (containing two water molecules per formula unit). However, detailed X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a staggering ten water molecules per formula unit – hence the name "tachyhydrite" (meaning "fast water"). This unprecedented hydration level is stabilized by the exceptionally high pressure within the ice caves.
Tachyhydrite's crystal structure is a complex and highly ordered arrangement of magnesium, carbonate, and ten water molecules. The pressure within the ice caves forces these components into an incredibly dense configuration, resulting in a crystal that is exceptionally hard and resistant to deformation. Its color ranges from white to pale blue due to light scattering within the tightly packed water molecules.
Key properties include:
The discovery of Tachyhydrite has profound implications for our understanding of mineral stability and the potential for life in extreme environments. It demonstrates that water molecules can exist within minerals under conditions previously thought impossible, expanding the range of potentially habitable locations – not just on Earth, but perhaps also on icy moons like Europa or Enceladus.
Current research is focused on: