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Siliceous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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siliceous

[sɪˈlɪʃəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mineralogy

Relating to or containing silica or a high proportion of silica.

Examples of usage

  • The rocks were characterized by their siliceous composition.
  • Siliceous deposits can be found in various geological formations.
Context #2 | Adjective

chemistry

Containing or resembling silicon.

Examples of usage

  • The compound had a siliceous structure.
  • The laboratory conducted tests to determine the siliceous nature of the sample.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Siliceous materials are crucial in the formation of sedimentary rocks like sandstone, which are primarily composed of sand-sized particles.
  • In biology, diatoms are a type of algae that have siliceous cell walls, contributing to their fossil record and ecological roles.

Geology

  • Siliceous rocks can be found in various forms including quartz, which is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's crust.
  • These rocks often play a significant role in the development of soil composition and can influence the plant life in an area.

Industry

  • Siliceous materials are essential in manufacturing glass, ceramics, and silicon chips, which are fundamental in technology.
  • In construction, siliceous gravel is used in concrete mixes to enhance durability and strength.

Environment

  • Siliceous materials can impact water drainage in soils, making them important in agriculture and horticulture.
  • Certain types of siliceous deposits can indicate historic changes in climate and ecological shifts over time.

Origin of 'siliceous'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'silex', meaning flint or hard stone, representing the mineral content.
  • The suffix '-eous' indicates composition, which is common in scientific terms, linking it to its elemental makeup.

The word 'siliceous' originates from the Latin word 'silex' meaning 'flint'. It is derived from the Latin 'silex' with the suffix '-eous' added to indicate 'made of' or 'resembling'. The term has been used in mineralogy and chemistry to describe substances containing silica or silicon.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,060, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.