Biomineralization: meaning, definitions and examples

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biomineralization

 

[ ˌbī-ō-ˌmin-rə-lə-ˈzā-shən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

process of forming minerals in living organisms

Biomineralization is the process by which living organisms produce minerals within their bodies. This process is essential for the formation of hard tissues such as bones, teeth, and shells. It involves the controlled deposition of minerals like calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate in a biological matrix.

Synonyms

biologically induced mineralization, mineralization.

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Word Description / Examples
biomineralization

This term is used when referring to the natural process by which living organisms produce minerals. It is commonly used in scientific discourse, especially in fields such as biology, geology, and environmental science.

  • The study of biomineralization sheds light on how coral reefs form and maintain their structure.
  • Understanding biomineralization can help in developing new materials for medical and industrial applications.
mineralization

A more general term that refers to the process of converting organic substances into inorganic substances, usually resulting in the formation of minerals. It can be used in a variety of fields, including geology, environmental science, and materials science.

  • The mineralization of the soil can be influenced by various environmental factors.
  • In geology, the process of mineralization is critical for the formation of valuable ore deposits.
biologically induced mineralization

This phrase specifically means that the mineral formation process is influenced or initiated by biological activity, but not necessarily controlled by organisms. It is often used in geological and environmental contexts to describe how biological factors impact mineral deposits.

  • Biologically induced mineralization can affect the concentration of metals in natural waters.
  • Researchers are investigating how microorganisms contribute to biologically induced mineralization in various ecosystems.

Examples of usage

  • Biomineralization plays a crucial role in the development of skeletal structures in vertebrates.
  • Corals use biomineralization to create their hard exoskeletons.
  • The study of biomineralization is important for understanding the evolution of mineral-forming processes in nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "biomineralization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 biomineralização

🇮🇳 जैव खनिजीकरण

🇩🇪 Biomineralisation

🇮🇩 biomineralisasi

🇺🇦 біомінералізація

🇵🇱 biomineralizacja

🇯🇵 バイオミネラリゼーション

🇫🇷 biominéralisation

🇪🇸 biomineralización

🇹🇷 biyomineralizasyon

🇰🇷 생체광물화

🇸🇦 التعدين الحيوي

🇨🇿 biomineralizace

🇸🇰 biomineralizácia

🇨🇳 生物矿化

🇸🇮 biomineralizacija

🇮🇸 lífrænt steinefnamyndun

🇰🇿 биоминерализация

🇬🇪 ბიომინერალიზაცია

🇦🇿 biominerallaşma

🇲🇽 biomineralización

Etymology

The term 'biomineralization' was first coined in the 1970s to describe the process of mineral formation within living organisms. It has since become a key area of study in fields such as biology, geology, and materials science. Biomineralization is a fascinating phenomenon that has implications for various industries, including medicine and environmental science.