Calcite: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ชจ
calcite
[ หkรฆlหsaษชt ]
mineral identification
Calcite is a carbonate mineral and the most stable polymorph of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). It is one of the most common minerals found in sedimentary environments and is a major component of sedimentary rocks such as limestone and marble. Calcite can form in a variety of environments, including caves, oceans, and soil. It has various crystal forms and can appear in many colors, although it is typically colorless or white. Its reacts with dilute acids, producing carbon dioxide gas, which is a distinguishing characteristic.
Synonyms
aragonite, calcium carbonate, chalk, lime.
Examples of usage
- Calcite is often used in geology to assist in the classification of rocks.
- The calcite crystals found in the cave formations are stunning and intricate.
- Limestone primarily consists of calcite, which makes it valuable for construction.
- Calcite's reaction with acid is a key test for carbonates in rock samples.
Translations
Translations of the word "calcite" in other languages:
๐ต๐น calcita
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคฒเฅเคธเคพเคเค
๐ฉ๐ช Calcit
๐ฎ๐ฉ kalsit
๐บ๐ฆ ะบะฐะปััะธั
๐ต๐ฑ kalcyt
๐ฏ๐ต ๆน่งฃ็ณ
๐ซ๐ท calcite
๐ช๐ธ calcita
๐น๐ท kalsit
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ฐฉํด์
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงูุณูุช
๐จ๐ฟ kalcit
๐ธ๐ฐ kalcit
๐จ๐ณ ๆน่งฃ็ณ
๐ธ๐ฎ kalcit
๐ฎ๐ธ kalsรญt
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบะฐะปััะธั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kalsit
๐ฒ๐ฝ calcita
Etymology
The term 'calcite' is derived from the Latin word 'calx', which means 'lime'. The usage of the word can be traced back to the early 19th century when it began to be used in a more formal geological context. The study of calcite significantly advanced with the development of mineralogy as a science during this period. Its significance lies in its abundance and its role in various geological processes, particularly in sediment formation and the carbon cycle. Throughout history, calcite has been utilized in various industriesโfrom construction to opticsโhighlighting its versatility and importance to human endeavors. Calcite's interaction with acid and its crystalline structure began to attract the attention of chemists and geologists alike, providing a deeper understanding of carbonate minerals.