URANINITE Meaning and
Definition
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Uraninite is a noun that refers to a common black mineral that contains uranium in the form of uranium dioxide (UO2). It is a primary ore of uranium, which is a highly radioactive element used in various applications, especially in nuclear reactors and weapons. The name uraninite is derived from the element uranium and the suffix "-ite," commonly used in mineralogy to denote minerals.
Uraninite typically occurs as a dense and heavy crystal or granular mass, and its color ranges from black to brownish-black, often exhibiting a metallic or sub-metallic luster. It has a hardness of 5.5–6 on the Mohs scale, indicating moderate hardness. Its specific gravity is relatively high, usually ranging from 8 to 10, making it heavier than most common rocks and minerals.
This mineral is commonly found in granite and pegmatite deposits, as well as hydrothermal veins associated with uranium-rich ore bodies. It often occurs together with other uranium-bearing minerals such as pitchblende. Due to its high uranium content, uraninite is a valuable mineral resource for the extraction of uranium.
From a safety perspective, uraninite is considered to be highly radioactive, emitting both alpha and gamma radiation. Therefore, it requires careful handling and containment to prevent exposure to harmful radiation.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for URANINITE
Etymology of URANINITE
The word "uraninite" has its etymology derived from two components: "uranium" and "-ite".
1. "Uranium": The term "uranium" originates from the planet Uranus, discovered by British astronomer Sir William Herschel in 1781. In honor of the newly-found planet, German chemist Martin Klaproth named the element "uranium" in 1789.
2. "-ite": The suffix "-ite" is commonly used in mineral names to indicate a mineral species. It comes from the Greek word "lithos", meaning "stone". Thus, "-ite" signifies a mineral or stone-like substance.
When combined, "uranium" and "-ite" form the word "uraninite", which refers to a mineral that is the most important ore source of uranium. Uraninite is a black, radioactive mineral primarily composed of uranium dioxide (UO2).
Similar spelling words for URANINITE
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