noun
- A black or dark gray mineral form of manganese dioxide (MnO₂), used as an ore of manganese and in the production of chlorine and other chemicals.
Usage: technical; mineralogy
Examples
- Pyrolusite is the primary ore from which manganese is extracted industrially.
- The dark crystals of pyrolusite are commonly found in oxidized manganese deposits.
- Pyrolusite has been used for centuries in the production of glass and ceramics.
- Miners seek out pyrolusite deposits because of their high manganese content.
- The chemical formula of pyrolusite is MnO₂, making it a valuable industrial mineral.