Aegirine is a mineral that belongs to the pyroxene group. It is a dark green or black mineral that is commonly found in igneous rocks. Aegirine is known for its unique crystal structure and its association with other minerals such as feldspar and quartz. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences of aegirine.
Definitions
Aegirine is defined as a mineral that is composed of sodium, iron, aluminum, and silicon. It has a chemical formula of NaFe3+Si2O6 and a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. Aegirine is also known by other names such as acmite, aegirite, and soda pyroxene.
Origin
The name aegirine is derived from Aegir, the Norse god of the sea. It was first discovered in Norway in 1835 by the Norwegian mineralogist, Christian Wilhelm Blomstrand. Aegirine is commonly found in alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites. It is also found in metamorphic rocks such as gneisses and schists.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of aegirine varies in different dictionaries. According to Merriam-Webster, aegirine is defined as “a green to black mineral of the pyroxene group that consists of a sodium iron silicate and occurs especially in alkaline igneous rocks.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines aegirine as “a mineral of the pyroxene group, consisting of sodium, iron, aluminium, and silicon, typically occurring in alkaline igneous rocks.”
Associations
Aegirine is commonly associated with other minerals such as feldspar, nepheline, biotite, and quartz. It is also found in association with rare earth elements such as zirconium, niobium, and tantalum. Aegirine is often used as an indicator mineral for alkaline igneous rocks.
Synonyms
Aegirine is also known by other names such as acmite, aegirite, and soda pyroxene. These names are used interchangeably in the mineralogical literature.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms of aegirine. However, one can use other minerals or substances as antonyms for this mineral. For example, one can use quartz or feldspar as antonyms for aegirine.
The same root words
Aegirine is derived from the name Aegir, the Norse god of the sea. The word “aegis” is also derived from Aegir and refers to a protective shield or armor. The root word “aegi-” is also used in other words such as “aegis” and “aegilops.”
Example Sentences
- The alkaline igneous rocks in this area contain aegirine as an indicator mineral.
- The crystal structure of aegirine is unique and distinct from other minerals.
- The black aegirine crystals contrasted beautifully with the white feldspar in the rock.
- Aegirine is commonly found in association with rare earth elements such as zirconium and niobium.