How Do You Spell SPHERULITE?

Pronunciation: [sfˈɛɹuːlˌa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Spherulite is a mineral term that refers to small, spherical crystals that form within a rock. The word is spelled as /ˈsfɛrjuˌlaɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress placed on the second syllable. The spelling of the word reflects the composition and shape of the mineral formation, with "sphere" indicating the round shape of the crystals, and "-lite" indicating a mineral or rock. The word is commonly used in the geology and petrology fields to describe various formations and texture patterns in rocks.

SPHERULITE Meaning and Definition

1. A spherulite is a geological or mineralogical term used to describe a distinct, spherical aggregate of crystalline material. The formation of spherulites occurs through the growth of mineral crystals in a radial or concentric pattern around a central nucleus, resulting in a distinctive spherical shape.

   Spherulites can be found in various natural materials such as volcanic rocks, igneous rocks, and certain minerals. These formations typically exhibit a unique, spherical texture with a radiating pattern that resembles the spokes of a wheel. The growth of spherulites can be caused by a variety of factors, including the cooling and solidification of molten lava or magma.

   In terms of composition, spherulites can be composed of different types of minerals, including quartz, feldspar, or pyroxene. Their size can vary considerably, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Spherulites often possess a distinct crystalline structure that can be visually observed under a microscope.

   Beyond their geological significance, spherulites can also have practical applications. For example, the presence of spherulites in certain materials can affect their physical properties, such as their strength, texture, or light-scattering capabilities. Consequently, researchers and engineers may study spherulites to better understand the properties and behavior of specific materials, which can inform various industrial processes or material design.

2. See sphaerulites, under sphaereda.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SPHERULITE

• spharulite
• Sphaerulide
• spherulates
• spherulated
• apherulite
• zpherulite
• xpherulite
• dpherulite
• epherulite
• wpherulite
• soherulite
• slherulite
• s-herulite
• s0herulite
• spgerulite
• spberulite
• spnerulite
• spjerulite
• spuerulite
• spyerulite

Etymology of SPHERULITE

The word "spherulite" originates from the combination of two Latin words: "sphaera" meaning "sphere" or "globe", and "lithos" meaning "stone" or "rock". In geology, a spherulite refers to a small spherical or globular structure that occurs within certain volcanic rocks and glasses. The term was first coined in the mid-19th century to describe these rounded mineral formations found in igneous rocks.