Augite is a mineral that belongs to the pyroxene group. It is a common rock-forming mineral that is found in many types of igneous rocks, including basalt and gabbro. Augite is known for its dark green to black color and its prismatic crystal habit. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and associations of augite.
Definitions
Augite is a calcium magnesium iron silicate mineral that has the chemical formula (Ca,Na)(Mg,Fe,Al)(Si,Al)2O6. It is a member of the pyroxene group, which includes minerals such as enstatite and diopside. Augite is a common mineral in igneous rocks, but it can also be found in metamorphic rocks and some sedimentary rocks.
Origin
The name “augite” comes from the Greek word “augites,” which means “brightness.” The mineral was first described in 1823 by the German mineralogist Johann Friedrich Ludwig Hausmann. Augite is formed in magmatic environments, where it crystallizes from magma or lava. It can also form during metamorphism, where it is created by the high pressure and temperature conditions that occur during the process.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, augite is defined as “a green to black mineral of the pyroxene group that occurs especially in basic igneous rocks.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines augite as “a mineral of the pyroxene group, typically occurring as dark green or black prismatic crystals in igneous rocks.”
Associations
Augite is associated with many different minerals, including plagioclase feldspar, olivine, and magnetite. It is commonly found in igneous rocks such as basalt, gabbro, and andesite. Augite can also be found in some metamorphic rocks, including amphibolites and granulites.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for augite, including diopside-augite, salite, and hedenbergite-augite. These names are used to describe specific varieties of augite that have slightly different chemical compositions.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for augite, as it is a specific mineral with a unique chemical composition and crystal structure.
The same root words
The root word for augite is “aug,” which comes from the Greek word “augites” meaning brightness. This root word is also found in other words related to light and brightness, such as “augment,” “august,” and “augury.”
Example Sentences
- The basaltic rocks in this area are rich in augite crystals.
- The metamorphic rocks in this region contain large amounts of hedenbergite-augite.
- The geologist identified the mineral in the rock sample as augite.
- The dark green color of the augite crystals contrasts with the white plagioclase feldspar in this rock.
- The mineralogy of this igneous rock is dominated by augite and olivine.