XONOTLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Xonotlite is a mineral that belongs to the silicate mineral group, specifically categorized as a sorosilicate. It is named after its discovery location, the Xonotla mine in Mexico. Xonotlite has a chemical formula of Ca6Si6O17(OH)2 and a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft mineral.
Xonotlite most commonly occurs in fibrous or acicular crystal formations, often resembling thin needle-like structures. These crystals can be colorless, white, or various shades of pale yellow. Along with its fibrous appearance, xonotlite also has a characteristic pearly or silky luster.
This mineral occurs in metamorphic and hydrothermal environments, typically forming as a secondary mineral in calcium-rich rocks. It is commonly associated with minerals such as garnet, andradite, wollastonite, and diopside. Xonotlite has been found in various regions worldwide, including Mexico, Italy, the United States, Japan, and New Zealand.
Due to its fibrous nature, xonotlite has industrial applications as an insulating material. It possesses excellent thermal insulation properties and is commonly used in the production of insulation boards, castables, and refractory materials. Xonotlite is also of interest to researchers and collectors due to its unique crystal habits and its role in understanding geological processes and mineralogy.
Common Misspellings for XONOTLITE
- zonotlite
- conotlite
- donotlite
- sonotlite
- xinotlite
- xknotlite
- xlnotlite
- xpnotlite
- x0notlite
- x9notlite
- xobotlite
- xomotlite
- xojotlite
- xohotlite
- xonitlite
- xonktlite
- xonltlite
- xonptlite
- xon0tlite
- xon9tlite
Etymology of XONOTLITE
The word "xonotlite" is derived from the Greek word "xonos", meaning "strange" or "foreign", and the suffix "-lite", which typically indicates a mineral or crystal. It was named as such due to the unusual or distinct characteristics of this particular mineral.
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