Siliceous: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 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.

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.

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

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• 16057 outlaw
• 16058 pal
• 16059 variegated
• 16060 siliceous
• 16061 itinerant
• 16062 necessitating
• 16063 overcrowding
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