GALENA Meaning and
Definition
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Galena is a naturally occurring mineral composed primarily of lead sulfide (PbS). It is a metallic mineral that exhibits a distinctive shiny, silver-gray color and a high density. Galena is the most important source of lead and has been mined for thousands of years due to its abundant availability and industrial importance.
The mineral typically forms in hydrothermal ore veins, often alongside other lead-containing minerals. It has a cubic crystal structure with perfect cleavage on certain planes, making it easily breakable into cubic or octahedral fragments. Galena has a relatively low hardness, measuring about 2.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it can be scratched with a fingernail.
In addition to its economic significance, galena also holds historical importance as it was used by ancient civilizations for making various tools, ornaments, and as a source of silver during the Roman period. However, galena's toxicity, due to its lead content, limits its use today to specific applications like lead-acid batteries and ammunition manufacturing.
From a geological perspective, galena is considered a primary mineral, formed through initial crystallization processes in hydrothermal systems. It can also occur as a secondary mineral in oxidized zones of lead deposits, where it may undergo certain transformations. Its distinct metallic luster, high lead content, and characteristic crystal habit make galena easily recognizable to experienced mineralogists and collectors.
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An ore of lead of a bluish-grey colour and metallic lustre.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for GALENA *
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Other Common Misspellings for GALENA
Etymology of GALENA
The word "galena" derives from the Latin word "galēna", which means "lead ore". The Latin term, in turn, is believed to have been influenced by the Greek word "galē̂nē", derived from the Greek word "galēnós", meaning "gleaming" or "metallic". This name was given to the mineral because of its metallic luster and association with lead. The concept of "galena" has been established for centuries, with the mineral being dedicated to the lead element in various languages.
Similar spelling words for GALENA
- gaulin,
- gallina,
- Glenna,
- galen,
- gala,
- galeano,
- galleon,
- Gallian,
- clean,
- gallien,
- Gaylene,
- Galina,
- Galyen,
- galan,
- gallen,
- Galeana,
- glen,
- gale,
- galliano,
- gallon,
- gallion.
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