Xylite is a mineral substance that belongs to the group of silicates. Its name comes from the Greek word "xylon," meaning wood, as it has a similar appearance to wood. The spelling of xylite can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The "x" in xylite is pronounced as [ks], the "y" as [aɪ], and the "l" as [l]. So, the correct pronunciation of xylite is [ksaɪlaɪt]. Xylite is used in the production of ceramics, electrical insulators, and refractory materials.
Xylite is a noun that refers to a mineral compound belonging to the group of silicates known as zeolites. It is specifically categorized as a zeolite subgroup called "mordenite." Xylite is primarily composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen atoms, arranged in a three-dimensional framework structure. Additionally, it contains other minor elements like calcium, potassium, and sometimes sodium.
Xylite typically occurs as colorless to white, pearly or glassy crystals, or as compact masses with a fibrous to radiating texture. It has a vitreous luster and a hardness of about 3.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft. Its specific gravity usually ranges from 2.1 to 2.2, indicating a relatively low density.
This mineral is named after "xylon," the Greek word for wood since it is often found associated with fossilized wood or in contact with it. Xylite is mainly found in sedimentary rocks, particularly those rich in marine deposits and volcanic ash. It commonly occurs in environments where fluid-rich solutions circulate through rock cavities during diagenesis or later alteration processes.
Xylite has certain industrial applications due to its high cation exchange capacity, which refers to its ability to effectively exchange and adsorb ions from solutions. It is used in various fields such as water purification, filtration, soil improvement, and as a catalyst in chemical reactions. Xylite is also valued among mineral collectors and geologists as a rare and beautiful specimen.
A peculiar liquid found in pyroxylic spirit; a mineralogical term for those varieties of amianthus which have a woolly-like texture, better known as mountain-wood, rock-wood, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word xylite has its origins in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek root word xúlon, which means wood. The suffix -ite is commonly used to denote a mineral or rock formed from a specific material, in this case, wood. Therefore, xylite essentially means wood mineral.