Apatite: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ชจ
apatite
[ หรฆpษtaษชt ]
mineral composition
Apatite is a group of phosphate minerals that are often considered vital for the formation of bones and teeth in living organisms. These minerals are typically characterized by their hexagonal crystal structure and their vibrant colors, which can range from green to blue, or even yellow and violet. Apatite plays a crucial role in various geological processes and is the main source of phosphorus used in fertilizers. Its name is derived from the Greek word 'apatein', meaning 'to deceive', due to the mineral's similarity to other substances.
Synonyms
calcium phosphate, phosphate mineral
Examples of usage
- The geologist studied the apatite crystals found in the rock sample.
- Apatite is essential in hydroxyapatite, which is important for dental health.
- Many fossils contain apatite, indicating the presence of phosphorus in ancient organisms.
Translations
Translations of the word "apatite" in other languages:
๐ต๐น apatita
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคชเฅเคเคพเคเค
๐ฉ๐ช Apatit
๐ฎ๐ฉ apatit
๐บ๐ฆ ะฐะฟะฐัะธั
๐ต๐ฑ apatyt
๐ฏ๐ต ใขใใฟใคใ
๐ซ๐ท apatite
๐ช๐ธ apatita
๐น๐ท apatit
๐ฐ๐ท ์ํํ์ดํธ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฃุจุงุชูุช
๐จ๐ฟ apatit
๐ธ๐ฐ apatit
๐จ๐ณ ็ฃท็ฐ็ณ
๐ธ๐ฎ apatit
๐ฎ๐ธ apatรญt
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะฟะฐัะธั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแขแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ apatit
๐ฒ๐ฝ apatita
Word origin
The term 'apatite' originates from the Greek word 'apatein', meaning 'to deceive' or 'to mislead'. This nomenclature was chosen due to the mineral's tendency to be mistaken for other minerals such as fluorite or bertrandite. Apatite was first described scientifically in the early 19th century, although it has been known since ancient times. Its various forms, primarily hydroxyapatite, are crucial components in biological systems, particularly in forming hard tissues in vertebrates. The identification and classification of apatite have significantly contributed to the fields of geology and biology. Apatite deposits are found worldwide, contributing to both industrial applications and understanding ecological systems.