The principle of atomic substitution is an exception to the rule that minerals have a specific chemical formula.

Question

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The principle of atomic substitution allows for atoms of different elements to replace each other within a mineral's crystal structure while maintaining the overall integrity of the crystal lattice. This can lead to variations in the mineral's chemical composition without changing its overall crystal structure, and is an exception to the strict chemical formula that usually describes mineral composition.

The Principle of Atomic Substitution Is an Exception to the Rule