BORACITE Meaning and
Definition
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Boracite is a mineral that belongs to the borate mineral group. Its chemical formula is Mg3B7O13Cl, which indicates that it is primarily composed of magnesium (Mg), boron (B), oxygen (O), and chlorine (Cl). This mineral typically occurs as small, colorless or white crystals with a vitreous or pearly luster. It has a Mohs hardness of 7, indicating its relative hardness on a scale from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest).
Boracite is known for its distinct crystal structure, which forms in the orthorhombic system. It often occurs in spherical or granular aggregates, and its crystal faces are commonly striated. It possesses a perfect cleavage in two directions, giving it a pseudo-cubic appearance.
Though boracite crystals are relatively small, they exhibit an interesting optical phenomenon called pleochroism. When viewed from different angles, the crystals may have different colors, ranging from colorless to yellow, green, or blue.
This mineral is usually found in sedimentary evaporite deposits that developed in association with evaporating sea water. It commonly occurs alongside other borate minerals such as ulexite and colemanite. Important localities where boracite can be found include Germany, Ukraine, Canada, and the United States.
Due to its unique crystal structure and physical properties, boracite possesses various applications. It is used in the creation of magnets, in the manufacturing of specialty glass, and as an ingredient in certain industrial processes, making it valuable to several industries.
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An anhydrous compound of magnesia and boracic acid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BORACITE
- voracite
- noracite
- horacite
- goracite
- biracite
- bkracite
- blracite
- bpracite
- b0racite
- b9racite
- boeacite
- bodacite
- bofacite
- botacite
- bo5acite
- bo4acite
- borzcite
- borscite
- boarcite
- boraccite
Etymology of BORACITE
The word "boracite" has its etymology rooted in the element boron and its chemical composition.
The term "boracite" is derived from the Greek word "borax" which refers to sodium borate, another compound of boron. The Greek word "borax" further traces its roots to the Persian word "burah" which translates to "borax".
The "-ite" suffix in boracite indicates that it is a mineral, as this suffix is commonly used in the naming of minerals. Therefore, boracite can be understood as a mineral composed of boron.
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