Actinolite: meaning, definitions and examples

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actinolite

 

[ ˈak-tə-ˌnō-ˌlīt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mineral, geology

Actinolite is a greenish mineral belonging to the amphibole group of silicate minerals. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is formed by the alteration of other minerals, particularly pyroxene. Actinolite is commonly associated with other minerals such as tremolite and hornblende.

Synonyms

amphibole, greenstone

Examples of usage

  • The quartzite contained significant amounts of actinolite.
  • Hikers stumbled upon actinolite formations in the cliffs.
  • Geologists study actinolite to understand metamorphic processes.

Etymology

The term 'actinolite' is derived from the Greek words 'aktinos', meaning 'ray' or 'beam', and 'lithos', meaning 'stone'. This naming reflects the fibrous, needle-like appearance of the mineral. Actinolite was first described in the early 19th century as a distinct mineral, although its fibrous nature had been noted in previous mineralogical studies. It is primarily found in metamorphic rocks that have undergone high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. Actinolite has significant importance in geology, particularly in understanding the processes of metamorphism and the conditions that lead to the formation of specific mineral assemblages. Over the years, actinolite has been studied extensively, revealing its role in rock formation and its associations with other minerals.