How Do You Spell TACHYLITE?

Pronunciation: [tˈakɪlˌa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Tachylite is a volcanic rock that is formed when molten lava is rapidly cooled. The word is pronounced /tækɪlaɪt/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The spelling of the word can be broken down into syllables, with "tachy" meaning "fast" and "lite" indicating that it is a type of rock. The combination of these two elements gives us the unique spelling of "tachylite." This type of rock is commonly found in areas with a high concentration of volcanic activity and can have many different uses in various industries.

TACHYLITE Meaning and Definition

1. Tachylite is a term used in geology to describe a specific type of volcanic glass, also known as basaltic glass. It is formed when molten lava rapidly cools and solidifies on the Earth's surface or within a lava flow. The resulting glassy substance lacks any significant crystalline structure, giving tachylite its characteristic amorphous appearance.

   The word "tachylite" is derived from the Greek words "tachys," meaning fast, and "lithos," meaning stone. This appropriately reflects the rapid cooling process that leads to the formation of this volcanic glass. Tachylite is an uncommon rock formation and is often found in association with volcanic environments, such as basaltic lava flows and volcanic cones.

   In terms of physical characteristics, tachylite is typically dark-colored, ranging from black to dark brown. It displays a glassy luster and often exhibits conchoidal fractures, similar to other types of natural glass. Its composition is primarily composed of silica, iron, magnesium, and calcium, with trace amounts of other minerals.

   Due to its relatively low viscosity, tachylite has a tendency to flow freely during a volcanic eruption, resulting in smooth, ropy or ribbon-like structures known as "Pāhoehoe" lava flows. Tachylite is also associated with high-temperature volcanic activity, and its presence can provide valuable insights into the history and characteristics of volcanic eruptions.

   Tachylite's unique properties and its association with volcanic formations make it an important area of study for geologists, volcanologists, and geoscientists who seek to deepen their understanding of volcanic processes and landform development.

2. A black vitreous mineral of the hornblende family, easily fused under the blowpipe.

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

Common Misspellings for TACHYLITE

• rachylite
• fachylite
• gachylite
• yachylite
• 6achylite
• 5achylite
• tzchylite
• tschylite
• twchylite
• tqchylite
• taxhylite
• tavhylite
• tafhylite
• tadhylite
• tacgylite
• tacbylite
• tacnylite
• tacjylite
• tacuylite

Etymology of TACHYLITE

The word "tachylite" is derived from the Greek word "tachus", meaning "swift" or "fast", and the Greek word "lithos", meaning "stone". Hence, "tachylite" literally translates to "swift stone" in reference to its rapid cooling formation.

Plural form of TACHYLITE is TACHYLITES