MELAPHYRE Meaning and
Definition
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Melaphyre is a term used in geology to describe a fine-grained, dark-colored igneous rock of volcanic origin. It is commonly composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene, and sometimes small amounts of olivine or amphibole. The name "melaphyre" is derived from the Greek words "melas," meaning black, and "phyros," meaning fire, which accurately reflects its characteristic dark appearance resulting from a high content of ferromagnesian minerals.
This type of rock typically forms when volcanic magma, rich in iron and magnesium, solidifies rapidly near the Earth's surface. The rapid cooling process prevents the growth of larger mineral crystals, resulting in a fine-grained texture and smooth surface. Melaphyres commonly exhibit a porphyritic texture, where larger phenocrysts of plagioclase or pyroxene are embedded within a fine-grained groundmass.
Melaphyres generally occur as dykes, sills, or lava flows and can be found in various volcanic regions worldwide. Despite their dark coloration, melaphyres are not necessarily associated with mafic (dark-colored) volcanic activity. They can also occur in association with other volcanic rocks, such as rhyolite or trachyte.
Due to their fine-grained nature, melaphyres are often used as construction materials, particularly as aggregate in concrete production. They are also considered valuable in some artistic applications due to their smooth texture and ability to take a polish. Additionally, the study of melaphyres aids geologists in understanding the history and processes of volcanic activity in a given region.
Common Misspellings for MELAPHYRE
- nelaphyre
- kelaphyre
- jelaphyre
- mwlaphyre
- mslaphyre
- mdlaphyre
- mrlaphyre
- m4laphyre
- m3laphyre
- mekaphyre
- mepaphyre
- meoaphyre
- melzphyre
- melsphyre
- melwphyre
- melqphyre
- melaohyre
- melalhyre
- mela-hyre
- mela0hyre
Etymology of MELAPHYRE
The word "Melaphyre" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "mélas" meaning black, and "phýra" meaning flame or fire.
The term "melaphyre" is used in geology to describe a dark-colored, fine-grained igneous rock that is intermediate in composition between basalt and andesite. The naming of this rock likely stems from its characteristic dark color, resembling that of flames or fire. The Greek roots accurately capture this visual aspect of the rock, giving rise to the name "melaphyre".
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