Halite, commonly known as rock salt, is a mineral form of sodium chloride (NaCl). It typically forms in evaporite deposits from the evaporation of seawater and is often found in sedimentary rock layers. Halite is essential for various industries, including food preservation and de-icing roads during winter.
In its natural state, halite appears as colorless or white crystals, but it can also exhibit shades of blue, pink, or yellow due to impurities. This mineral is not only important for human consumption but also plays a vital role in the ecosystem, influencing the salinity of water bodies and supporting diverse life forms.