ULTRABASIC Meaning and
Definition
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The term "ultrabasic" is an adjective used to describe rocks or minerals that have an extremely low silica content and a high proportion of magnesium and iron. These rocks are characterized by their very high melting points, typically above 1200 degrees Celsius, and their low viscosity when melted. Ultrabasic rocks are part of the larger classification known as mafic rocks, which also include basalts and gabbros.
These rocks are formed through the process of mantle melting, where the Earth's mantle partially melts and produces magma that rises toward the surface. The low silica content of ultrabasic rocks indicates their origins in mantle material that has undergone extensive melting, resulting in minerals rich in magnesium and iron.
Ultrabasic rocks often have a greenish color due to the presence of the mineral olivine, which is a common constituent. Other minerals that can be found in ultrabasic rocks include pyroxenes, amphiboles, and occasionally, chromium and nickel-rich minerals.
Due to their unique composition, ultrabasic rocks have limited occurrence in the Earth's crust and are usually found in specific tectonic settings such as ophiolites, which are sections of oceanic crust that have been thrust onto continents. They are important economically as they often host deposits of valuable minerals such as nickel, platinum, and chromite.
In summary, ultrabasic refers to rocks or minerals with low silica content, high magnesium and iron content, high melting points, and low viscosity. They are formed through mantle melting processes and are characterized by their greenish color and association with valuable minerals.
Common Misspellings for ULTRABASIC
- yltrabasic
- hltrabasic
- jltrabasic
- iltrabasic
- 8ltrabasic
- 7ltrabasic
- uktrabasic
- uptrabasic
- uotrabasic
- ulrrabasic
- ulfrabasic
- ulgrabasic
- ulyrabasic
- ul6rabasic
- ul5rabasic
- ulteabasic
- ultdabasic
- ultfabasic
- ulttabasic
- ult5abasic
Etymology of ULTRABASIC
The word "ultrabasic" is derived from two components: "ultra-" and "basic".
The prefix "ultra-" originates from the Latin word "ultra", which means beyond or surpassing. It is often used to indicate something extreme, excessive, or beyond the usual. For example, "ultraviolet" indicates a range of light waves beyond violet, while "ultramodern" refers to something that surpasses modernity.
The term "basic" is derived from the Latin word "basis", which means foundation or base. In English, "basic" describes something fundamental, essential, or having a pH level greater than 7. It is often used to characterize substances that are opposite to acids.
Therefore, when combined, "ultrabasic" suggests a rock, mineral, or substance that goes beyond the usual or extreme in terms of its fundamental properties or chemical composition.
