metasomatism

A geologist points to a rock sample showing metasomatism in a textbook diagram.

Definition

1. Noun (Geology):
   • Metasomatism is the process of chemical alteration of a rock by the introduction of new minerals from external sources, typically through the circulation of hot fluids or gases. This involves the replacement of existing minerals with new ones while the rock remains in a solid state.

Usage Examples

Advanced Usage

• "Metasomatic alteration": a specific type of metasomatism that changes the mineral composition of a rock.

  • The metasomatic alteration of granite produced a zone rich in quartz and feldspar.

• "Alkali metasomatism": a subtype involving the introduction of alkali elements (like sodium or potassium).

  • Alkali metasomatism in the Earth's crust can create unusual igneous rocks.

Variants and Related Words

• Metasomatic (adj): relating to or resulting from metasomatism.

  • The metasomatic changes in the limestone created a marble-like texture.

• Metasomatize (verb, rare): to undergo or cause metasomatism.

  • The hot fluids metasomatized the surrounding bedrock over millions of years.

Synonyms

• Replacement (in geology): the process by which one mineral replaces another.
• Hydrothermal alteration: a specific type of metasomatism involving hot water.

Related Idioms

• (No common idioms exist for this technical term.)

Phrasal Verbs

• (No phrasal verbs are associated with this word.)

Related Compounds

• Metasomatic rock: a rock that has been altered by metasomatism.
  • The metasomatic rock contained rare crystals not found in the original deposit.