How Do You Spell ALLOPHANE?

Pronunciation: [ˈaləfˌe͡ɪn] (IPA)

The word "Allophane" is spelled with three syllables: /əˈlɒfeɪn/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, like the "uh" sound in "up". The second syllable is stressed and pronounced with a longer "o" sound, like the "oa" sound in "boat". The third syllable is pronounced with an "ay" sound and a nasal "n" sound. Allophane is a mineral that is typically found in volcanic soils and can vary in color from white to yellowish-gray.

ALLOPHANE Meaning and Definition

1. Allophane is a mineral that belongs to the phyllosilicate group, characterized by its amorphous nature. The term allophane is derived from the Greek words "allo" meaning other or different, and "phaneros" meaning visible, which alludes to its tendency to resemble other minerals. Allophane typically occurs in fine-grained masses, and its color can vary from white, light yellow, to greenish-gray.

   What makes allophane distinctive is its lack of crystalline structure. It is not formed by the typical arrangement of atoms seen in crystalline minerals but rather forms a gel-like substance with a disordered atomic arrangement. This amorphous nature gives allophane a unique property of exhibiting a wide range of characteristics, such as high water absorption, high cation-exchange capacity, and swelling behavior.

   This mineral is commonly found as a weathering product in soils and rock formations, often associated with volcanic activity. It forms as a result of chemical weathering processes involving the alteration of volcanic glass or other primary minerals rich in silica. Allophane's amorphous structure allows it to readily absorb and release water, making it important in soil science as it influences water retention, nutrient availability, and overall soil fertility.

   In summary, allophane is an amorphous mineral characterized by its lack of crystalline structure. It is typically found in soils and rocks as a result of weathering processes and exhibits various properties, such as high water absorption and cation-exchange capacity.

2. A mineral, generally of a pale-blue colour-occurs lining small cavities, and in veins.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ALLOPHANE

• zllophane
• sllophane
• wllophane
• qllophane
• aklophane
• aplophane
• aolophane
• alkophane
• alpophane
• aloophane
• alliphane
• allkphane
• alllphane
• allpphane
• all0phane
• all9phane
• alloohane
• allolhane
• allo-hane
• allo0hane

Etymology of ALLOPHANE

The word "allophane" is derived from the Greek words "allos" meaning "other" and "phanos" meaning "to appear". It represents the property of the mineral in which it can appear in various different colors, giving the impression of being another mineral.

Plural form of ALLOPHANE is ALLOPHANES