Amphibole – Definition & Meaning

Amphibole is a term used in mineralogy to describe a group of minerals that share a similar crystal structure. These minerals are typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and are known for their fibrous or elongated shape. Amphibole is a common mineral in the Earth’s crust and has been studied extensively by geologists and mineralogists.

Definitions

Amphibole is a group of minerals that are characterized by their double-chain silicate structure. They are typically dark-colored and have a prismatic or needle-like shape. The most common types of amphibole are hornblende, actinolite, and tremolite.

Origin

The word amphibole comes from the Greek word “amphibolos,” which means “ambiguous” or “doubtful.” This is because the mineral was often confused with other minerals due to its similar appearance. The term was first used in the 18th century by mineralogist Axel Cronstedt to describe a group of minerals that he believed were intermediate between mica and hornblende.

Meaning in different dictionaries

In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, amphibole is defined as “any of a group of minerals that are silicates of calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminum and that crystallize in the monoclinic system.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines amphibole as “a group of rock-forming minerals that are silicates of calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminum, typically occurring as prismatic, needle-like crystals.”

Associations

Amphibole is often associated with igneous and metamorphic rocks, such as granite, basalt, and gneiss. It is also found in some sedimentary rocks, such as shale and limestone. Amphibole is often used as a geothermometer, which means that it can be used to estimate the temperature at which a rock was formed.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of amphibole include hornblende, actinolite, tremolite, edenite, and glaucophane.

Antonyms

There are no specific antonyms for amphibole, as it is a group of minerals rather than a single mineral.

The same root words

The root word “amphibole” comes from the Greek word “amphibolos,” which means “ambiguous” or “doubtful.” The word “amphibian” also comes from this root word, as it refers to animals that can live both on land and in water.

Example Sentences

  1. The rock sample contained a high concentration of amphibole minerals.
  2. The geologist used the presence of amphibole to estimate the temperature at which the rock was formed.
  3. The dark color of the amphibole gave the rock a distinctive appearance.
  4. The amphibole in the rock was difficult to distinguish from other minerals.
  5. The amphibole crystals in the rock were elongated and fibrous in shape.
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