Batholith is a term used in geology to describe a large, intrusive igneous rock formation that is typically formed deep within the earth’s crust. The term batholith is derived from the Greek words “bathos” meaning depth and “lithos” meaning rock. Batholiths are important geological features that have significant implications for the study of geology and the earth’s history.
Definitions
A batholith is a large, irregularly shaped mass of igneous rock that is formed deep within the earth’s crust. It is composed of a variety of minerals, including feldspar, quartz, and mica. Batholiths are typically several kilometers in diameter and can extend for hundreds of kilometers.
Origin
Batholiths are formed when magma rises from the earth’s mantle and is intruded into the surrounding rock. The magma cools and solidifies over a long period of time, forming a large, intrusive igneous rock formation. Batholiths are typically associated with tectonic activity, such as subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a batholith is “a large mass of intrusive igneous rock that has been formed deep within the earth’s crust.” Merriam-Webster defines a batholith as “a large mass of igneous rock that has melted and intruded surrounding strata.”
Associations
Batholiths are often associated with other geological features, such as volcanic activity, earthquakes, and mountain building. They can also be associated with mineral deposits, such as gold, copper, and silver.
Synonyms
Synonyms for batholith include pluton, stock, laccolith, and dike.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for batholith.
The same root words
The root words “bathos” and “lithos” are also found in other geological terms, such as bathymetry (the measurement of the depth of the ocean floor) and lithosphere (the rigid outer layer of the earth).
Example Sentences
- The Sierra Nevada batholith is one of the largest in North America.
- The formation of the batholith was a result of tectonic activity in the region.
- The mineral deposits associated with the batholith have attracted mining companies to the area.
- The batholith is composed of a variety of minerals, including feldspar and quartz.
- The study of batholiths provides important insights into the earth’s geological history.