How Do You Spell OCTAEDRITE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒktiːdɹˌa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Octaedrite is a mineral that belongs to the pyrite group. The spelling of octaedrite is pronounced as ɒktəˈiːdrʌɪt, using phonetic transcription. This word derives from the Greek 'octa' which means 'eight' and 'hedra' means 'faces.' The octaedrite has eight faces or planes, which form at equal angles to each other. It has a metallic luster and is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, coal beds, and hydrothermal vents. The spelling of octaedrite is often misspelled as "octahedrite."

OCTAEDRITE Meaning and Definition

1. An octaedrite refers to a type of meteorite, which is a fragment of stone or metal that has survived the passage through Earth's atmosphere and landed on the planet's surface. The term "octaedrite" specifically describes the crystalline structure found in the iron-nickel alloy of certain meteorites.

   Octaedrites are categorized as a subgroup of iron meteorites, accounting for a significant proportion of all known meteorites. They are characterized by a highly distinctive octahedral crystal structure composed primarily of iron and nickel. This structure means that the metal's atoms are arranged in a symmetrical, closely-packed lattice resembling a stack of octahedrons.

   Octaedrites typically exhibit a rich, metallic appearance and often contain striking Widmanstätten patterns when etched with acid. These patterns are formed due to the presence of different mineral phases, such as kamacite and taenite, that coexist within the meteorite. These intricate patterns, observed under a microscope, add to the uniqueness and aesthetic appeal of octaedrites.

   Octaedrites are believed to originate from the core of asteroids or planetesimals that experienced a violent collision or breakup, resulting in the ejection of fragments into space. These fragments eventually found their way to Earth, where they can be unearthed through natural processes or discovered through scientific expeditions. The study of octaedrites provides valuable insights into the composition and evolution of our solar system, shedding light on the processes that occurred during its formation billions of years ago.

2. In min., a term for the pure oxide of titanium occurring in elongated eight-sided crystals.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for OCTAEDRITE

• ictaedrite
• kctaedrite
• lctaedrite
• pctaedrite
• 0ctaedrite
• 9ctaedrite
• oxtaedrite
• ovtaedrite
• oftaedrite
• odtaedrite
• ocraedrite
• ocfaedrite
• ocgaedrite
• ocyaedrite
• oc6aedrite
• oc5aedrite
• octzedrite
• octsedrite
• octwedrite
• octqedrite

Etymology of OCTAEDRITE

The word "octaedrite" is derived from the Greek words "okto" meaning "eight" and "hedra" meaning "base or face". It refers to a type of meteorite that has a crystalline structure composed of eight-sided (octahedral) shapes.