PHOSPHORITE Meaning and
Definition
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Phosphorite is a sedimentary rock that contains high concentrations of the mineral phosphorus. It is formed through the accumulation of phosphatic materials over millions of years. This rock predominantly consists of the mineral apatite, which is the primary source of phosphorus for various industrial and agricultural purposes.
Phosphorite deposits typically occur in marine environments, particularly in ancient marine sediments. The rock forms as a result of the deposition and concentration of phosphate-rich materials derived from marine organisms like fish, shells, and other marine life. Over time, these materials become compacted and cemented together to form phosphorite.
The color of phosphorite can vary, and it is usually found in shades of green, brown, gray, or black. The texture of the rock can range from fine-grained to coarse-grained, depending on the sedimentary conditions during its formation.
Phosphorite is of significant economic importance due to its high phosphorus content. The mineral is a vital component in the manufacturing of fertilizers, as it supplies essential nutrients to plants for their growth and development. It is also used in animal feed supplements and as a source of phosphorus in various industrial processes, including the production of detergents, matches, and phosphoric acid.
Phosphorite deposits are found in various regions around the world, with notable occurrences in countries such as Morocco, China, the United States, and Russia. Large-scale mining and extraction operations are conducted to obtain phosphorite reserves for the purpose of meeting global demand for phosphorus-based products.
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Native phosphate of lime occurring in veins in certain rocks —also called apatite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PHOSPHORITE
- ohosphorite
- lhosphorite
- -hosphorite
- 0hosphorite
- pgosphorite
- pbosphorite
- pnosphorite
- pjosphorite
- puosphorite
- pyosphorite
- phisphorite
- phksphorite
- phlsphorite
- phpsphorite
- ph0sphorite
- ph9sphorite
- phoaphorite
- phozphorite
- phoxphorite
- phodphorite
Etymology of PHOSPHORITE
The word "Phosphorite" originated from the combination of two Greek words: φῶς (phōs), meaning "light", and φόρος (phoros), meaning "bearer" or "carrying". Together, they form φῶς (phōs) + φόρος (phoros) = "light-bearing" or "light-carrying". This name was given to the mineral due to its ability to emit light when exposed to certain forms of energy or when heated.
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