CRYPTOCRYSTALLINE Meaning and
Definition
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Cryptocrystalline refers to a type of crystalline structure in which crystals are too small to be observed individually with the naked eye or a standard light microscope. The term "crypto" in cryptocrystalline comes from the Greek word "kryptos," meaning hidden or secret, emphasizing the hidden nature of its microscopic crystals.
Cryptocrystalline materials typically display a smooth or waxy appearance, lacking the distinct crystal faces and sharp edges observed in larger crystals. Instead, they appear more homogeneous and amorphous when viewed at a macroscopic level. The small crystal size and fine-grained nature of these materials contribute to their unique properties.
Common examples of cryptocrystalline materials include chalcedony, agate, jasper, and flint. These minerals are composed of microcrystalline quartz, in which the tiny quartz crystals are densely packed together. This arrangement gives rise to a range of captivating colors and patterns often sought after in decorative and jewelry applications.
Due to their microscopic crystal structure, cryptocrystalline materials often possess desirable properties such as hardness, durability, and excellent polishability. They also exhibit optical phenomena, including translucency or opacity, depending on their specific composition and formation conditions.
The study of cryptocrystalline materials is of great significance in geology and materials science as it allows for the understanding of the formation processes, physical properties, and alterations that can occur in these unique types of minerals.
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Having very minute crystals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CRYPTOCRYSTALLINE
- xryptocrystalline
- vryptocrystalline
- fryptocrystalline
- dryptocrystalline
- ceyptocrystalline
- cdyptocrystalline
- cfyptocrystalline
- ctyptocrystalline
- c5yptocrystalline
- c4yptocrystalline
- crtptocrystalline
- crgptocrystalline
- crhptocrystalline
- cruptocrystalline
- cr7ptocrystalline
- cr6ptocrystalline
- cryotocrystalline
- cryltocrystalline
- cry-tocrystalline
- cry0tocrystalline
Etymology of CRYPTOCRYSTALLINE
The word "cryptocrystalline" is derived from two root elements: "crypto-" and "-crystalline".
The prefix "crypto-" comes from the Greek word "kryptós", meaning hidden or secret. It is often used to denote something that is concealed or hard to perceive.
The term "crystalline" comes from the Latin word "crystallus", which itself has Greek origins. It refers to a crystal or solid substance with a definite and regular arrangement of atoms, resulting in a characteristic geometric structure.
When these two elements are combined, "cryptocrystalline" is formed. It is commonly used to describe a type of mineral or rock structure that exhibits microscopic crystal formation, making it difficult to see or distinguish individual crystals without the aid of a microscope.
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