MICROPEGMATITE Meaning and
Definition
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Micropegmatite is a geological term used to describe a type of igneous rock that typically forms in granitic or pegmatitic environments. It is a microscopic variety of pegmatite, characterized by its fine-grained nature and intricate intergrowth of minerals. The term "micro" in micropegmatite refers to the small grain size of the rock, which is too small to be visible to the naked eye.
Micropegmatite is composed of a variety of minerals, including quartz, feldspar (such as microcline or orthoclase), and mica. These minerals often display a well-developed interlocking texture, forming a highly intricate pattern within the rock. Due to its fine-grained nature, micropegmatite is known for its unique aesthetic appeal when observed under a microscope, as the intergrowth of minerals produces striking patterns and colors.
Micropegmatite commonly occurs as small veins or dikes within larger pegmatite bodies. It forms as a result of late-stage crystallization processes, where the remaining fluids rich in silica and fluxing agents penetrate fractures or pore spaces in the surrounding rock, leading to the precipitation of minerals that constitute the micropegmatite.
The intricate intergrowth of minerals in micropegmatite makes it valuable in certain applications. It is often sought after by collectors and lapidaries due to its unique beauty and potential for gemstone extraction. Additionally, micropegmatite can serve as an indicator of the mineralogical processes that occurred during the formation of the larger pegmatite body, providing valuable insights into Earth's geological history.
Common Misspellings for MICROPEGMATITE
- nicropegmatite
- kicropegmatite
- jicropegmatite
- mucropegmatite
- mjcropegmatite
- mkcropegmatite
- mocropegmatite
- m9cropegmatite
- m8cropegmatite
- mixropegmatite
- mivropegmatite
- mifropegmatite
- midropegmatite
- miceopegmatite
- micdopegmatite
- micfopegmatite
- mictopegmatite
- mic5opegmatite
- mic4opegmatite
- micripegmatite
Etymology of MICROPEGMATITE
The word "micropegmatite" is derived from a combination of two terms: "micro" and "pegmatite".
1. Micro: The term "micro" is derived from the Greek word "mikrós", meaning small. In English, "micro" is used as a prefix to indicate something small or microscopic in size.
2. Pegmatite: "Pegmatite" is a rock type that is composed of exceptionally large crystals. The word "pegmatite" is derived from the Greek word "pegma", meaning "something fastened together". This refers to the interlocking nature of the large crystals forming the rock.
Combining the two terms, "micropegmatite" refers to a variety of pegmatite rock in which the crystals are significantly smaller compared to typical pegmatites.
