How Do You Spell ANALCITE?

Pronunciation: [ˈanɐlsˌa͡ɪt] (IPA)

The word "analcite" is spelled with four syllables: /əˈnæl.saɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "uh" sound, followed by the stressed second syllable with the "a" sound. The third syllable has a short "i" sound, and the final syllable has the "t" sound, pronounced with the tongue touching the back of the upper teeth. Analcite is a mineral found in volcanic rocks that is typically colorless or white, and often used in the manufacture of ceramics and glass.

ANALCITE Meaning and Definition

1. Analcite is a mineral that belongs to the zeolite group, which is a group of hydrous silicate minerals. It is commonly found in volcanic rocks and sedimentary environments. The name 'analcite' is derived from the Greek words 'an meaning without' and 'alkis meaning lime', reflecting its low content of calcium. Its chemical composition is represented by the formula NaAlSi2O6•H2O, indicating a sodium aluminum silicate with water molecules.

   Analcite typically occurs as colorless or white, translucent to transparent crystals. It has a vitreous to pearly luster and a glassy appearance. The mineral usually crystallizes in the isometric system, forming well-developed, rhombic dodecahedron-shaped crystals, but it can also occur in the form of grainy or massive aggregates.

   One remarkable property of analcite is its ability to change its shape upon heating, somewhat resembling an 'explosion.' This phenomenon is known as 'analctization' and is caused by the release of water molecules from the crystal structure. Analcite exhibits a relatively low hardness, ranging from 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, making it susceptible to scratching.

   Due to its porous nature, analcite has applications in various industries, such as water purification, gas and liquid adsorption, and as a catalyst support. It also serves as a valuable collectors' mineral due to its aesthetic crystal habit and occurrence in attractive specimens. Analcite can be found in locations worldwide, including Iceland, Canada, Italy, China, and the United States.

Common Misspellings for ANALCITE

• znalcite
• snalcite
• wnalcite
• qnalcite
• abalcite
• amalcite
• ajalcite
• ahalcite
• anzlcite
• anslcite
• anwlcite
• anqlcite
• anakcite
• anapcite
• anaocite
• analxite
• analvite
• analfite
• analdite

Etymology of ANALCITE

The word Analcite derives from the Greek word análkimos, which means weak or unable in reference to the stone's low hardness or fragility. The term was coined in 1792 by Rene Just Hauy, a French mineralogist, to describe a type of zeolite mineral characterized by its fragile nature. The prefix ana- signifies lack or negation, while -litos denotes stone in Greek. Therefore, Analcite roughly translates to unstable stone or stone without strength.

Plural form of ANALCITE is ANALCITES