The spelling of the word "crystal mineral" is straightforward. The word "crystal" is spelled with a /k/ sound followed by a long /ɪ/ sound and ending in /l/ sound. The word "mineral" starts with a /m/ sound followed by a short /ɪ/ sound and ends with an /əl/ sound. When pronounced together, the words create a harmonious combination of crisp consonants and smooth vowels. The IPA phonetic transcription for "crystal mineral" is /ˈkrɪstəl ˈmɪnərəl/.
Crystal mineral refers to a naturally occurring geological substance that possesses a particular atomic arrangement, resulting in a distinct, well-defined crystalline structure. Crystals are solid materials in which atoms or molecules are arranged in a repeating pattern that extends in all three dimensions. Crystalline minerals are typically formed through a slow cooling and solidification process, allowing sufficient time for the atoms or molecules to arrange themselves in a repetitive, orderly pattern.
Crystal minerals can exhibit a diverse range of physical properties, including distinct geometric shapes, transparent or translucent appearances, and unique colorations. They often possess a regular internal symmetry due to the repeating pattern of their atomic arrangement, which is responsible for their characteristic crystalline structure. Some common examples of crystal minerals include quartz, diamond, calcite, and feldspar.
Crystal minerals hold significant significance in various fields, such as geology, chemistry, and jewelry making. They are examined and classified based on their crystallographic features, such as the arrangement of atoms, internal symmetry, and external physical properties. Crystals have long been admired for their aesthetic appeal and have been utilized for decorative purposes, as gemstones, and in various industrial applications, including electronics and optics.
Overall, crystal minerals are an essential part of Earth's geological makeup and have captivated human fascination for centuries due to their unique atomic arrangements and striking physical characteristics.
Sal prunelle, fused potassium nitrate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the word "crystal" can be traced back to the ancient Greek word "krustallos", meaning "ice" or "rock crystal". This word referred to transparent quartz crystals that were believed to be permanently frozen ice. The term later expanded to include other transparent or translucent minerals that exhibited a consistent atomic structure.
The word "mineral" comes from the Latin word "mineralis", which means "pertaining to mines". It was used to describe substances found and extracted from mines, such as metals and ores. Over time, it began to encompass various naturally occurring inorganic substances, including crystals, rocks, and other geological formations.
Therefore, the term "crystal mineral" combines the Greek root "krustallos", denoting the transparent nature of crystals, with the Latin term "mineralis", referring to the broader category of natural inorganic substances obtained from mines.