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Silicate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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silicate

[ˈsɪlɪkeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

Silicate refers to a member of a large class of compounds consisting of silicon and oxygen, as well as various metals. They are commonly found in nature as minerals and are a significant component of the Earth's crust. Silicates play an essential role in geology and material science.

Synonyms

silicate mineral, silicon oxide.

Examples of usage

  • Quartz is a common silicate mineral.
  • Silicates are used in ceramics and glassmaking.
  • The Earth's crust is primarily composed of silicate minerals.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Silicates make up over 90% of the Earth's crust, showcasing their abundance and significance in geology.
  • They are classified into groups based on their structure, including frameworks, sheets, and chains.
  • Common silicates include quartz and feldspar, which are key in forming many types of rocks.

Technology

  • Silicates are crucial in the manufacturing of glass, ceramics, and electronics, linking them to modern technology.
  • Silicon, derived from silicates, is the backbone of semiconductors used in computers and smartphones.
  • Research into silicate minerals has led to innovations in materials science, affecting many high-tech industries.

Art and Culture

  • The vibrant colors observed in pottery and glass often come from different silicate minerals, impacting artistic expression.
  • Some artists utilize silicate-based materials in sculptures, blending natural elements with creativity.
  • In ancient cultures, silicate minerals were prized for their beauty and often used in jewelry and ornamentation.

Environmental Impact

  • Silicates play a role in soil formation, which is essential for agriculture and ecosystem health.
  • Some silicate minerals can help in carbon capture, potentially aiding in climate change mitigation efforts.
  • The weathering of silicate minerals affects the Earth's carbon cycle, influencing global temperatures over geological timescales.

Origin of 'silicate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'silicium,' meaning 'flint' or 'stone,' reflecting its natural origins.
  • The suffix '-ate' is used in chemistry to denote compounds, often indicating that a mineral includes oxygen.
  • Silicates were first studied scientifically in the 19th century, leading to important developments in geology.

The term 'silicate' originates from the Latin word 'silicis', meaning 'of flint' or 'silicon.' This term has its roots in the chemical composition of silicates, which are compounds comprising silicon (Si) and oxygen (O). The classification of silicates as a distinct group of minerals began in the early 19th century with advances in mineralogy and chemistry. As scientists studied the properties of various minerals, they recognized that silicates are the most abundant class of minerals in the Earth's crust, accounting for about 90% of all rock-forming minerals. Over time, silicate chemistry has gained importance in various fields, including materials science, geology, and environmental science, as the understanding of silicate structures has implications for the earth's formation, the behavior of different rocks, and the development of new materials.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,512, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.