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Glite Dictionary
nitrocalcite

nitrocalcite

9.9
A white or clear mineral that forms small crystals in dry places
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : nitrocalcita
  • The presence of nitrocalcite in the cave resulted from the decomposition of bat guano.

Examples

  • Researchers analyzed samples of nitrocalcite they collected in arid regions.

  • Humidity can cause nitrocalcite crystals to dissolve over time.

  • The geologist discovered a rare nitrocalcite deposit in the cave.

  • Did you know that nitrocalcite can be used in fertilizers?

  • The geologist discovered a rare nitrocalcite deposit in the cave.

  • Researchers analyzed samples of nitrocalcite they collected in arid regions.

  • Humidity can cause nitrocalcite crystals to dissolve over time.

Surface Forms

nitrocalcite singular
nitrocalcites plural

Morphology

nitrocalcite = calcite (semi-transparent) = nitro + calcite + nitro

Formally built from the combining form 'nitro-' + 'calcite', so structure is clear, but the specific chemical meaning (a nitrate mineral distinct from ordinary calcite) is specialized and may not be obvious to general learners.

Etymology

Nitrocalcite joins nitro- and calcite: nitro- comes from the word 'nitre' and nitrate, meaning a salt with nitrogen, and calcite is linked to calcium and the old word 'calx', meaning 'lime'. So, nitrocalcite literally means a 'calcium salt with nitrate', which is why the mineral is calcium nitrate.