To determine the diaphaneity of gypsum mineral, we analyze its light-transmitting properties.
1. Understanding Gypsum Characteristics:
Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral (CaSO₄·2H₂O) commonly found in sedimentary environments.
2. Diaphaneity of Gypsum:
- Gypsum typically exhibits a range from transparent to translucent diaphaneity.
- High-quality crystal specimens are often transparent.
- Massive forms are usually translucent.
3. Eliminating Other Options:
- "Opaque" is incorrect as gypsum is never completely opaque
- "Opaque to translucent" is incorrect as gypsum is never opaque
- "Translucent" alone is incomplete as it can also be transparent
4. Scientific References:
According to mineralogical references (Dana's System of Mineralogy, Mindat.org), gypsum's diaphaneity is properly described as transparent to translucent.
Conclusion:
The most accurate description of gypsum's diaphaneity is transparent to translucent.
Final Answer:
The correct option is: transparent to translucent.