Augitic is a term that is often used in geology and mineralogy. It refers to a type of mineral that is commonly found in igneous rocks. The term is derived from the mineral augite, which is a silicate mineral that is often found in basaltic and gabbroic rocks. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of augitic, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Augitic is an adjective that is used to describe something that is related to or characteristic of augite. Augite is a mineral that is typically dark green or black in color and has a prismatic crystal shape. It is a member of the pyroxene group of minerals and is commonly found in igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro.
Origin
The term augitic is derived from the mineral augite, which was first described in 1792 by the German mineralogist Abraham Gottlob Werner. The name augite is derived from the Greek word augites, which means “brightness” or “shine”. This is a reference to the mineral’s luster, which is often described as vitreous or glassy.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, augitic is defined as “of or relating to augite”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “pertaining to or composed of augite”. The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “of or relating to a mineral of the pyroxene group, such as augite”.
Associations
Augitic is commonly associated with igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro. It is also associated with other minerals in the pyroxene group, such as diopside and hedenbergite. Augite is often used as a geothermometer, which means that it can be used to determine the temperature at which the rock in which it is found was formed.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for augitic include pyroxenic, pyroxenitic, and augitoid.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for augitic, as it is a term that is used to describe a specific type of mineral.
The same root words
Augitic is derived from the mineral augite, which is a member of the pyroxene group of minerals. Other minerals in this group include diopside, hedenbergite, and enstatite.
Example Sentences
- The basaltic rock was rich in augitic minerals.
- The thin section of the rock showed abundant augitic crystals.
- The geologist used the presence of augitic minerals to determine the temperature at which the rock was formed.