PETRIFACTION Meaning and
Definition
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Petrifaction is a geological process by which organic materials, such as plants and animals, undergo a complete transformation into stone. It occurs over an extended period of time under specific conditions that allow for the infiltration of minerals into the organic matter, thereby replacing the original organic materials with minerals such as silica, calcite, or pyrite.
The process of petrifaction typically begins when the remains of once-living organisms are rapidly buried or submerged in sediment or water. Over time, as the minerals in the surrounding environment percolate through the organism's tissues, they slowly replace the structure and composition of the organic matter. The gradual replacement of organic molecules with inorganic minerals results in the preservation of the organism's shape and microscopic details. As a result, the petrified remains showcase a high level of fidelity to the original organism.
Petrifaction is an essential process for the formation of fossils, which provide important information about past life forms and environments. Fossilized plants, animals, and other organisms undergo petrifaction and become invaluable markers for understanding Earth's history and evolutionary development. Scientists and paleontologists study petrified remains to gain insights into ancient ecosystems, species' anatomy, and even the climate of bygone eras.
Petrifaction is a slow and intricate process, requiring specific geological conditions and a substantial amount of time. Nonetheless, it is responsible for the exceptional preservation seen in many fossils, offering a glimpse into the distant past and contributing to our understanding of the evolution of life on Earth.
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Fossilization, conversion into stone; calcification.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Conversion of an animal or vegetable substance into stony matter; process of changing into stone.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PETRIFACTION
Etymology of PETRIFACTION
The word petrifaction originated from the Latin word petra, meaning rock. The Latin term petra itself can be traced back to the Greek word petra, with the same meaning. Adding the Latin suffix -ficus, meaning making or causing, to the root word petra, gives us petrifaction, which literally means making into rock.
Similar spelling words for PETRIFACTION
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