Shale Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shale
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Definitions
rock formation
Shale is a fine-grained sedimentary rock formed from the compression of mud and clay. It is characterized by its ability to split easily into thin layers, making it a commonly used material in construction and landscaping.
Synonyms
argillite, claystone, mudstone.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shale |
Shale is used to refer to a type of sedimentary rock that is formed from clay or mud and has a fine grain. It is often found in oil and natural gas extraction contexts.
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| mudstone |
Mudstone is another type of fine-grained sedimentary rock that does not show the fine stratification like shale. It is often used in informal or descriptive language.
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| claystone |
Claystone refers to a type of fine-grained sedimentary rock consisting mostly of clay minerals. It is used in both geological and construction contexts.
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| argillite |
Argillite is a metamorphosed sedimentary rock that is more hardened than shale. It is typically used in a more geological and technical context than in everyday language.
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Examples of usage
- The shale deposits in this region are rich in organic matter.
- The shale layer is known for its high resistance to weathering and erosion.
energy industry
In the energy industry, shale refers to a type of sedimentary rock that contains natural gas or oil. Shale gas and shale oil extraction has become increasingly popular due to advancements in hydraulic fracturing technology.
Synonyms
source rock, tight rock, unconventional reservoir.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shale |
Used in geology and the oil and gas industry to describe a type of sedimentary rock that is fine-grained and can contain significant amounts of organic material.
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| tight rock |
Describes rock formations with low permeability that do not easily allow fluids to flow through. Often used in the context of unconventional oil and gas extraction.
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| source rock |
Refers to a rock containing sufficient organic material that, when subjected to heat and pressure, can generate hydrocarbons like oil and natural gas. Used commonly in geology and petroleum engineering.
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| unconventional reservoir |
Refers to types of rock formations that do not have the typical properties of more conventional petroleum reservoirs. Requires non-traditional methods for extraction.
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Examples of usage
- The company is investing in shale gas exploration in the Appalachian region.
- Shale oil production has boosted the country's energy independence.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geology
- Shale is the most abundant sedimentary rock, forming in sea beds and lakes over millions of years.
- It often contains fossils, allowing scientists to study ancient life through these preserved remains.
- The ability of shale to hold oil and natural gas has turned it into a valuable resource in energy production.
Environmental Science
- Extraction of oil from shale can lead to environmental concerns, including water contamination and landscape disruption.
- Efforts are being made to develop more sustainable methods of energy extraction from shale deposits.
- Shale formations can also serve as important groundwater reservoirs, impacting ecosystems and human water supply.
Art and Culture
- Some artists use shale as a medium for sculpting, appreciating its natural beauty and textured surfaces.
- In traditional architecture, some cultures have used shale for building, utilizing its layered strength and aesthetic appeal.
- Shale's layered appearance often inspires artists and architects, connecting natural forms with human creativity.
Pop Culture
- In the film 'The Big Short,' the discussion of energy choices highlights the importance of shale gas in modern economy.
- Shale formations are often featured in documentaries exploring geology and natural resources, capturing public interest.
- Some music artists reference natural elements like shale in their lyrics, symbolizing the connection between nature and human life.
Origin of 'shale'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'shale' comes from the Old English 'scealu', meaning 'a shell or a thin layer'.
- This term reflects the rock's nature, showing that it is layered and can split easily.
- In French, 'schiste' relates to the layering characteristic, demonstrating language links across cultures.
The word 'shale' originated from the Old English word 'scealu', meaning 'shell' or 'husk'. It was first used in the context of rock formations in the mid-18th century to describe the fine-grained sedimentary rocks found in layers. Shale has been an important resource for construction, energy production, and geological studies.