Magnetite: meaning, definitions and examples

🪨

Add to dictionary

magnetite

[ˈmaɡnɪtʌɪt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mineral

A black or brownish-black mineral consisting of a mixed oxide of iron. It is a valuable source of iron.

Synonyms

ferrite, iron ore, lodestone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
magnetite	Use this term when referring to a naturally occurring iron oxide that is magnetic. It's often discussed in geology, mining, and materials science. Geologists discovered a large deposit of magnetite in the region Magnetite is one of the most magnetic naturally occurring minerals on Earth
lodestone	This term is used in historical or archaic contexts to describe a naturally magnetized piece of magnetite, often associated with early uses in navigation. Ancient mariners used lodestones as primitive compasses The lodestone in the museum's collection still points north after centuries
iron ore	Use this term when talking about raw iron-bearing minerals that are mined and processed to extract metallic iron. It's often used in industrial and economic contexts. The company increased its production of iron ore to meet the growing demand from steel manufacturers Australia is one of the largest producers of iron ore in the world
ferrite	This term is best used in metallurgy and materials science to describe a specific crystalline form of iron, typically found in steel. It's also used to describe magnetic materials in electronics. The microstructure of this steel includes both austenite and ferrite phases Ferrite cores are commonly used in transformers and inductors

Examples of usage

Magnetite is commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
The strong magnetic properties of magnetite make it a popular mineral for experiments.
Magnetite is used in the production of heavy concrete and as an aggregate in high-density concrete.
The presence of magnetite in certain rocks can affect their magnetic properties.
In industry, magnetite is commonly used as a dense medium in coal washing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The name comes from 'Magnes', an ancient Greek word for magnet or lodestone – a naturally magnetized piece of iron.
The suffix '-ite' is commonly used in mineralogy to denote natural minerals and rocks.
Historically, the word evolved in languages such as Latin and Old French before making its way into modern English.

Geological Significance

Found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, magnetite is often one of the first minerals to crystallize in cooling magma.
It plays a crucial role in the earth’s magnetic field, being a key component of the planet's iron core.
Due to its magnetic properties, magnetite can be used to study geological formations and magnetic fields over time.

Industrial Applications

Magnetite is heavily utilized in the steel manufacturing process, serving as a source of iron.
Its magnetic properties make it useful in various technology applications, such as magnetic separators and recording tapes.
In water treatment, magnetite can help filter impurities and is used in several filtration processes.

Cultural References

During the Middle Ages, magnetite was believed to have mystical properties, with some claiming it could heal ailments.
It features in folklore, often regarded as a stone of attraction or guidance due to its magnetic qualities.
Modern pop culture references include its use in sci-fi narratives illustrating advanced technology powered by magnetism.

Scientific Importance

Magnetite is part of a group of minerals known as the spinel group, known for their crystal structures and magnetic properties.
Research into magnetite has implications in nanotechnology, particularly in the development of magnetic nanoparticles for medical applications.
Its ability to retain magnetism makes it a focus in studies of how materials respond to magnetic fields under different conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "magnetite" in other languages:

🇵🇹 magnetita

🇮🇳 चुम्बकीय लोहा अयस्क

🇩🇪 Magnetit

🇮🇩 magnetit

🇺🇦 магнетит

🇵🇱 magnetyt

🇯🇵 磁鉄鉱 (じてっこう)

🇫🇷 magnétite

🇪🇸 magnetita

🇹🇷 manyetit

🇰🇷 자철석 (자철석)

🇸🇦 مغنيتيت

🇨🇿 magnetit

🇸🇰 magnetit

🇨🇳 磁铁矿 (cí tiě kuàng)

🇸🇮 magnetit

🇮🇸 seguljárnsteinn

🇰🇿 магнетит

🇬🇪 მაგნეტიტი

🇦🇿 maqnetit

🇲🇽 magnetita

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,795, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13792 humiliating
13793 lifeless
13794 residency
13795 magnetite
13796 copyrighted
13797 transferor
13798 concealing
...