HYPOCRYSTALLINE Meaning and
Definition
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Hypocrystalline is an adjective that pertains to the texture or formation of a crystalline substance, specifically one that exhibits an incomplete or imperfect crystalline structure. The term is commonly used in geology and mineralogy to describe minerals or rocks that do not possess a well-defined, regular arrangement of atoms.
In hypocrystalline substances, the crystalline lattice structure is disrupted or distorted, resulting in a more disordered or amorphous state. This lack of crystallographic perfection is typically caused by various factors such as rapid cooling, high pressure, or the presence of impurities during the mineral's formation or growth process.
Hypocrystalline materials often display a distinct grainy or granular appearance, reflecting the irregular distribution of their constituent particles. Due to this lack of well-defined crystal structure, they may also exhibit unique physical properties, including increased transparency, altered hardness, or modified optical effects.
In geological contexts, hypocrystalline textures are commonly associated with volcanic or intrusive igneous rocks, as well as certain types of metamorphic rocks. These rocks may have undergone rapid cooling or experienced intense pressure, leading to the incomplete development of crystalline minerals within their matrix.
Overall, the term hypocrystalline denotes a departure from the typical crystalline nature, indicating an imperfect or less well-ordered arrangement of atoms within a substance's structure.
Common Misspellings for HYPOCRYSTALLINE
- gypocrystalline
- bypocrystalline
- nypocrystalline
- jypocrystalline
- uypocrystalline
- yypocrystalline
- htpocrystalline
- hgpocrystalline
- hhpocrystalline
- hupocrystalline
- h7pocrystalline
- h6pocrystalline
- hyoocrystalline
- hylocrystalline
- hy-ocrystalline
- hy0ocrystalline
- hypicrystalline
- hypkcrystalline
- hyplcrystalline
Etymology of HYPOCRYSTALLINE
The word "hypocrystalline" is a scientific term formed by combining the prefix "hypo-" and the suffix "-crystalline".
The prefix "hypo-" is derived from the Greek word "hypo", meaning "below" or "under". It is commonly used in English to signify "less than" or "lower than".
The suffix "-crystalline" is derived from the Greek word "krustallos", meaning "crystal" or "ice". In scientific terminology, the suffix "-crystalline" is used to describe substances or materials that have a crystal-like structure or characteristics, although they may not display a perfect crystal lattice.
So, when these two parts are combined, "hypocrystalline" refers to something that is "less than crystalline" or "with a structure that is not fully crystalline".
