ANORTHOCLASE Meaning and
Definition
-
Anorthoclase is a mineral that belongs to the feldspar group. It is an aluminosilicate composed primarily of potassium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen, with the chemical formula KAlSi3O8.
In terms of its physical properties, anorthoclase typically has a glassy or vitreous luster and can appear colorless, white, or pale shades of yellow, gray, or pink. It has a distinct cleavage with two directions at nearly right angles to each other, resulting in a characteristic blocky or prismatic crystal habit. Anorthoclase is transparent to translucent, with a relatively low hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale.
Anorthoclase is commonly found in igneous rocks, particularly those of volcanic origin, such as rhyolite and trachyte. It typically occurs as a minor constituent, often alongside other feldspars like orthoclase and plagioclase. Anorthoclase is also sometimes found in metamorphic rocks, particularly those that have undergone high-grade regional metamorphism.
In terms of uses, anorthoclase has limited industrial applications. However, it can be used as a raw material in the ceramic and glass industries. It is also of interest to mineral collectors due to its unique crystal habit and association with other minerals in certain geological environments.
Overall, anorthoclase is a potassium-rich feldspar mineral with a characteristic crystal structure and occurrence in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Common Misspellings for ANORTHOCLASE
- znorthoclase
- snorthoclase
- wnorthoclase
- qnorthoclase
- aborthoclase
- amorthoclase
- ajorthoclase
- ahorthoclase
- anirthoclase
- ankrthoclase
- anlrthoclase
- anprthoclase
- an0rthoclase
- an9rthoclase
- anoethoclase
- anodthoclase
- anofthoclase
- anotthoclase
- ano5thoclase
- ano4thoclase
Etymology of ANORTHOCLASE
The word "Anorthoclase" originates from the combination of two terms: "anortho" and "clase".
- "Anortho" is derived from the Greek prefix "an", meaning "not" or "without", and "ortho", meaning "straight" or "upright". In the context of minerals, it refers to the absence of the orthoclase structure present in the related potassium feldspar group.
- "Clase" is short for "clasey", a term used by mineralogist William Whewell in 1822 to describe a clear to white mineral resembling feldspar. It has a Latin root, "clarus", meaning "clear" or "transparent".
Combining these elements, "Anorthoclase" describes a mineral that lacks the orthoclase structure but retains similar characteristics to feldspar, particularly its transparency or clarity.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
