THORITE Meaning and
Definition
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Thorite is a mineral that falls under the broader category of thorium silicates. It is typically black in color and can be found in various countries including the United States, Brazil, Germany, and Norway. The mineral's chemical formula is ThSiO4, indicating the presence of thorium and silicon.
From a geological perspective, thorite is considered an accessory mineral due to its low abundance in most rocks. It is primarily found in granite pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and certain metamorphic rocks. The mineral's crystalline structure belongs to the tetragonal system, which means its crystals are shaped as prisms with pyramidal terminations.
Thorite is recognized for being one of the major sources of the radioactive element thorium, which has important applications in various fields. Its radioactivity makes it potentially hazardous, as prolonged exposure may pose health risks. However, thorite's primary significance lies in its usage as a source of thorium for nuclear energy production, as thorium can be transformed into fissile uranium-233.
In addition to its relevance in energy production, thorite has some industrial applications. It can be utilized as a black pigment in ceramics, glasses, and paint. Moreover, thorite's attractive black color and distinct crystal habits make it a sought-after mineral among mineral collectors and enthusiasts.
Overall, thorite is a black mineral containing thorium and silicon, primarily found in certain rocks and valued for its radioactive and industrial properties.
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A hard, brittle, reddish-brown, massive mineral, occurring in the Syenites of Norway.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for THORITE
- rhorite
- fhorite
- ghorite
- yhorite
- 6horite
- 5horite
- tgorite
- tborite
- tnorite
- tjorite
- tuorite
- tyorite
- thirite
- thkrite
- thlrite
- thorire
- thori5e
- thori4e
- thoriue
Etymology of THORITE
The word "thorite" is derived from the name of the Norse god Thor, known for his strength and power. It stems from the mineral's high thorium content, as thorite is a thorium silicate mineral. The term was first introduced in the mid-19th century, combining "Thor" with the common suffix "-ite" used for many minerals.
Similar spelling words for THORITE
- third,
- thirty,
- thyroid,
- therewith,
- throat,
- threatt,
- threat,
- thread,
- thereto,
- three-d,
- theriot,
- Threet,
- third eye,
- thoriate,
- thready.
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