IGNEOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Igneous is an adjective that pertains to or describes a type of rock that is formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. This term derives from the Latin word "ignis," meaning fire, which is indicative of the fiery origin of these rocks.
Igneous rocks are typically formed either beneath the Earth's surface or on its surface. When the molten rock material, known as magma, cools and solidifies within the Earth's crust, it gives rise to intrusive or plutonic igneous rocks. These rocks are characterized by their coarse-grained texture, suggesting slow cooling and crystallization processes occurring underground.
In contrast, when magma reaches the Earth's surface and is exposed to the atmosphere, it is referred to as lava. Consequently, extrusive or volcanic igneous rocks are formed when lava solidifies. Due to their rapid cooling rate on the surface, these rocks generally exhibit a fine-grained or sometimes glassy texture.
Igneous rocks encompass a wide range of compositions, including basalt, granite, and obsidian, among others. The mineral composition and texture of igneous rocks can provide valuable information about their formation conditions and history, as well as insights into the Earth's geological processes. Igneous rocks play a significant role in the rock cycle, as they can be transformed into other rock types through processes like erosion, weathering, and metamorphism.
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Containing fire; produced by fire; resulting from the action of fire, as igneous rocks.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of IGNEOUS
The word "igneous" comes from the Latin word "ignis", which means "fire". It originates from the belief that igneous rocks were formed from molten material, or magma, which is associated with high temperatures and fire-like properties.
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