KOMATIITE Meaning and
Definition
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Komatiite is a type of ultramafic volcanic rock that is considered one of the rarest and most enigmatic rocks on Earth. It belongs to the peridotite group and is believed to have formed during the Archean and early Proterozoic era, approximately 3.5 to 2.5 billion years ago.
What sets komatiite apart from other volcanic rocks is its unique composition and mineralogy. It is primarily composed of magnesium-rich olivine and pyroxene minerals, with lesser amounts of other minerals like chromite and garnet. This high magnesium content differentiates komatiite from basalt, the most common volcanic rock on the planet.
Komatiite is known for its distinctive appearance, typically exhibiting a dark green to black color with a glassy texture. It often displays spectacular spinifex texture, characterized by elongated crystal aggregates that resemble bundles of spiky grass. These textures are a result of the extremely high temperatures at which komatiite lavas were erupted (up to 1600 degrees Celsius) and their rapid cooling rates.
The name "komatiite" is derived from the Komati River, located in South Africa, where this rock formation was first discovered. Since then, komatiite has been found in various parts of the world, including Canada, Australia, Russia, and Zimbabwe.
Komatiite provides valuable insights into the early history of our planet, as its formation required unique geologic conditions that are no longer present on Earth. By studying komatiite, scientists can gain a better understanding of ancient volcanic activity, mantle processes, and the evolution of Earth's lithosphere.
Common Misspellings for KOMATIITE
- jomatiite
- momatiite
- lomatiite
- oomatiite
- iomatiite
- kimatiite
- kkmatiite
- klmatiite
- kpmatiite
- k0matiite
- k9matiite
- konatiite
- kokatiite
- kojatiite
- komztiite
- komstiite
- komwtiite
- komqtiite
- komariite
- komafiite
Etymology of KOMATIITE
The word "komatiite" is derived from the Komati River in South Africa, which is where this type of rock was first discovered. The river flows through a region called the Barberton Greenstone Belt, known for its ancient rock formations. Komatiite, with its unique composition and characteristics, was first identified and named after the Komati River in the early 20th century.
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