OPHICALCITE Meaning and
Definition
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Ophicalcite is a term used in geology to describe a type of rock that is composed primarily of serpentinite and marble. It is a metamorphic rock, which means that it has undergone significant changes in its mineralogical and textural composition due to intense heat and pressure.
Serpentinite is the dominant component of ophicalcite, typically comprising more than 50% of the rock. It is a greenish, mottled rock composed mainly of serpentine minerals, such as antigorite or lizardite. Serpentinite forms through the hydration (chemical reaction with water) of ultramafic rocks, such as peridotite or pyroxenite.
Marble, which makes up the remaining portion of ophicalcite, is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone undergoes recrystallization due to the effects of heat and pressure. It is composed mostly of calcite or dolomite minerals, giving it a characteristic white or colored appearance.
The combination of serpentinite and marble in ophicalcite gives the rock a distinctive appearance, with mottled green and white coloring. It often exhibits a banded or striped texture, with alternating layers of serpentine and marble.
Ophicalcite is commonly found in areas where there have been geological processes associated with tectonic activity, such as subduction zones or ophiolite complexes. It is extensively used as a decorative stone in construction, as well as for sculptures and other artistic purposes, due to its unique appearance and aesthetic appeal.
Common Misspellings for OPHICALCITE
- iphicalcite
- kphicalcite
- lphicalcite
- pphicalcite
- 0phicalcite
- 9phicalcite
- oohicalcite
- olhicalcite
- o0hicalcite
- opgicalcite
- opbicalcite
- opnicalcite
- opjicalcite
- opuicalcite
- opyicalcite
- ophucalcite
- ophjcalcite
- ophkcalcite
- ophocalcite
- oph9calcite
Etymology of OPHICALCITE
The word "ophicalcite" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It is derived from two main components: "ophic" and "lite".
1. "Ophic": The term "ophic" comes from the Greek word "ophis" which means "serpent" or "snake". It is derived from the belief that certain stones or minerals with a serpent-like appearance possessed unique properties. The word "ophic" has been used in various scientific contexts to label materials resembling snakes or serpent patterns.
2. "Lite": The suffix "-lite" is commonly used in mineralogy to indicate a rock or mineral. It comes from the Greek word "lithos", meaning "stone" or "rock".
Combining these two components, "ophicalcite" refers to a rock composed primarily of calcite or calcium carbonate with a serpent-like appearance or patterns resembling snakes.
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