HORNBLENDIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Hornblendization is a geological process that refers to the alteration or metamorphism of rocks, specifically involving the formation or conversion of minerals into hornblende. Hornblende is a complex group of dark-colored minerals that belong to the amphibole group and are commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
During the hornblendization process, various minerals present in a rock, such as feldspar, pyroxene, or biotite, undergo chemical reactions and transformations under high temperatures and pressures. These reactions result in the growth or replacement of the existing minerals with hornblende crystals. The process typically occurs during regional or contact metamorphism, when rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure due to tectonic forces, volcanic activity, or the intrusion of magma.
The transformation to hornblende brings about distinct changes in the physical and chemical properties of the rock. Hornblende minerals have a dark color, usually ranging from black to dark green or brown, which gives the altered rock a characteristic appearance. Additionally, hornblendization can also influence the mineral composition, texture, and overall fabric of the rock.
This process is named after hornblende due to its dominance and significance in the alteration of rocks, particularly in mafic and intermediate compositions. It plays a crucial role in deciphering the geological history and conditions that rocks have undergone, aiding in the understanding of the Earth's dynamic processes and the formation of various rock types.
Common Misspellings for HORNBLENDIZATION
- gornblendization
- bornblendization
- nornblendization
- jornblendization
- uornblendization
- yornblendization
- hirnblendization
- hkrnblendization
- hlrnblendization
- hprnblendization
- h0rnblendization
- h9rnblendization
- hoenblendization
- hodnblendization
- hofnblendization
- hotnblendization
- ho5nblendization
- ho4nblendization
- horbblendization
- hormblendization
Etymology of HORNBLENDIZATION
The word "hornblendization" is derived from the mineral hornblende, which is a complex inosilicate mineral belonging to the amphibole group. The suffix "-ization" indicates the process of hornblendizing or transforming into hornblende.
