terrane
- noun
- /ˈtɛrəneɪ/
- Specialized
:
terreno
- Geologists mapped the boundaries of the terrane to study its unique rock formations.
Examples
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Each terrane tells a different story about the Earth's tectonic past.
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The Pacific Northwest contains several distinct terranes that collided with the continent millions of years ago.
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The terrane was formed millions of years ago.
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Researchers study the terrane to understand its unique features.
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The geologist studied the unique rock formations of the terrane to understand its geological history.
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The discovery of fossils in the terrane provided valuable insights into its ancient environment.
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A distinct terrane can often be identified by its differing mineral composition when compared to surrounding areas.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Terrane comes from the Latin root terra meaning 'earth' or 'land' and is like the common word terrain meaning 'ground'. In geology, a terrane is a block of the Earth's crust with its own different history from the land around it, so you can remember it as a 'land' block with its own story.
