A comprehensive basic program for cation calculation and classification of amphiboles

Abstract EN

This paper presents a comprehensive computer program which provides the user with information about the chemically analysed amphiboles.

The program is written in BASIC in an interactive style which allows an easy operation using a standard personal computer.

The required input is the raw data of mineral analyses, in either oxide or element forms, as obtained from the traditional and instrumental chemical laboratories.

The program performs a sequence of tasks which includes; oxide-cation conversion, Fe2+/Fe3+ calculations (if required), cation allocation in the different crystal sites, and identification of the amphibole group and mineral.

The number of processed elements is 24 which covers all the known relevant elements encountered in amphiboles.

The number of tasks and the number of elements included in this program far exceed those considered in any of the previously published programs.

Besides, the program allows the user a wide latitude of options with explanations, tables and graphical presentations to help in the selection of appropriate options.

The output consists of tables and plots which allow; tracing of the different operations, reliability of calculations, decision making during the execution of the program, as well as standard print forms for publication.