Ore deposits formed by weathering

Abstract

Many types of mineral deposit form by weathering. For discussion in this chapter we have selected bauxite, nickel laterite and kaolin; we also describe supergene manganese and the supergene enrichment of sulphides. These mineral deposits are among the most important ores formed by weathering and supergene enrichment is one of the best understood aspects of weathering. The selections were made to illustrate the several different chemical processes taking place during weathering.