calcite
/'kælsait/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A common mineral consisting of crystallized calcium carbonate; a major constituent of limestone: Calcite is a naturally occurring, crystalline form of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). It is one of the most widespread minerals on Earth and is the primary component of rocks like limestone and marble.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- The cave walls were lined with sparkling calcite crystals.
- Limestone is primarily composed of the mineral calcite.
- Under a microscope, the calcite exhibited perfect cleavage.
Advanced Usage
- "Optical calcite": A very pure, transparent form of calcite, also known as Iceland spar, which exhibits strong double refraction.
- Scientists used a piece of optical calcite to demonstrate the polarization of light.
Variants and Related Words
- Calcitic (adj): Of or relating to calcite.
- The rock had a high calcitic content.
Synonyms
- Calcium carbonate: The chemical compound (CaCO₃) that forms calcite.
- Iceland spar: A specific, clear variety of calcite.
Related Phrases
- Calcite vein: A geological formation where calcite has filled a fracture in rock.
- The miners followed a rich calcite vein.
Noun
- a common mineral consisting of crystallized calcium carbonate; a major constituent of limestone