PLAGIOCLASTIC Meaning and
Definition
-
Plagioclastic is an adjective that refers to a specific type of texture or structure encountered in rocks, particularly igneous rocks, that are formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. It specifically describes a type of crystalline arrangement characterized by the presence of plagioclase feldspar crystals.
Plagioclase feldspar is a common type of mineral found abundantly in several rock types. It belongs to the feldspar group of minerals and is known for its characteristic striped or lamellar appearance. When these plagioclase feldspar crystals are arranged in alternating layers or bands within a rock, the resulting texture is referred to as plagioclastic.
The plagioclastic texture is formed when magma or lava contains plagioclase feldspar crystals in a semi-crystalline state. As the molten material cools and solidifies, the plagioclase crystals align themselves in parallel, resulting in distinct bands or layers. These layers can be easily observed in cross-sections or through microscopic examination of the rock specimens.
Plagioclastic textures provide valuable information to geologists, as the arrangement and composition of these crystals can help determine the formation and cooling history of the rock. Additionally, the presence of plagioclase feldspar itself can be indicative of the original rock's mineral composition and the conditions under which it was formed.
Overall, the term plagioclastic describes a specific texture found in rocks that is characterized by the presence of aligned bands or layers of plagioclase feldspar crystals.
Common Misspellings for PLAGIOCLASTIC
- olagioclastic
- llagioclastic
- -lagioclastic
- 0lagioclastic
- pkagioclastic
- ppagioclastic
- poagioclastic
- plzgioclastic
- plsgioclastic
- plwgioclastic
- plqgioclastic
- plafioclastic
- plavioclastic
- plabioclastic
- plahioclastic
- playioclastic
- platioclastic
- plaguoclastic
- plagjoclastic
- plagioclaztic
- plagiooclastic
- Plaglioclastic
Etymology of PLAGIOCLASTIC
The word "plagioclastic" is formed from two components: "plagio-" and "-clastic".
1. "Plagio-" comes from the Ancient Greek word "plagios" (πλάγιος), which means "oblique" or "slanting". is derived from the verb "plassein" (πλάσσειν), meaning "to mold" or "to form".
2. "-Clastic" is derived from the Greek word "klasis" (κλασις), which means "breaking" or "fragmentation". is derived from the verb "klastos" (κλαστός), meaning "to break" or "to shatter".
Therefore, "plagioclastic" combines these two components to describe something that is oblique or slanting in its fragmentation or breaking properties.
Similar spelling words for PLAGIOCLASTIC
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
