LEPIDOCROCITE Meaning and
Definition
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Lepidocrocite is a mineral species that belongs to the group of iron oxides and hydroxides, specifically categorized as an oxide mineral. Its name is derived from the Greek words "lepidos," meaning scale, and "krokis," meaning fiber, alluding to its characteristic fibrous and scaly crystal structure.
Chemically, lepidocrocite is composed of iron(III) oxide-hydroxide, with the nominal chemical formula FeO(OH). It usually forms as a secondary mineral in oxidizing environments, often associated with iron-bearing minerals and ores. Lepidocrocite commonly occurs as ochre-colored masses, fibrous aggregates, or as thin coatings on other minerals. It has a characteristic blood-red to reddish-brown color and may exhibit a pearly or silky luster on exposed surfaces.
The crystal structure of lepidocrocite consists of stacked layers of octahedrally coordinated iron atoms, which are linked by hydroxyl (OH) groups. It is a rather soft mineral, typically exhibiting a Mohs hardness of around 5.5 to 6.5. Lepidocrocite is non-magnetic and exhibits no cleavage or distinct fracture, instead showing concurrent fibrous and granular textures.
Due to its distinctive appearance, lepidocrocite has both scientific and commercial relevance. It is commonly used as a pigment in the manufacturing of paints, ceramics, and even cosmetics. Furthermore, its presence in geological formations can have implications for water quality, geochemistry, and environmental studies.
Common Misspellings for LEPIDOCROCITE
- kepidocrocite
- pepidocrocite
- oepidocrocite
- lwpidocrocite
- lspidocrocite
- ldpidocrocite
- lrpidocrocite
- l4pidocrocite
- l3pidocrocite
- leoidocrocite
- lelidocrocite
- le-idocrocite
- le0idocrocite
- lepudocrocite
- lepjdocrocite
- lepkdocrocite
- lepodocrocite
- lep9docrocite
- lep8docrocite
Etymology of LEPIDOCROCITE
The word "lepidocrocite" comes from the combination of two Greek terms: "lepis" meaning "scale" and "krokis" meaning "pebble". This is because lepidocrocite, a mineral form of iron(III) oxide hydroxide, often appears in scales or pebble-like formations. The term was first coined in the mid-19th century when mineralogists discovered and identified this specific mineral.
Similar spelling word for LEPIDOCROCITE
