Goldschmidt Classification

The classification named after Victor M. Goldschmidt is a classification of chemical elements used in geochemistry according to their affinity for different carrier phases.

atmophile

Gas-loving; gaseous under standard conditions; are either gases or form volatile hydrides.

lithophile

Silicate-loving; easily combining with oxygen; mainly highly reactive metals of the s- and f-blocks.

chalcophile

Sulfur-loving; easily combining with sulfur or another chalcogen; low affinity for oxygen.

siderophile

Iron-loving; transition metals; easily dissolving in iron; either as solid solutions or in molten state.

synthetic

Synthetic or radioactive trace elements; excluded from the Goldschmidt classification.