How Do You Spell REEVESITE?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈiːvɪsˌa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Reevesite (/ˈri:vzaɪt/) is a mineral that was first discovered in 1955 in California, USA. Its name is derived from the mineralogist, Frederick A. Reeves, who was the first to describe its properties. The correct spelling of "reevesite" is crucial in identifying this rare mineral in scientific literature and in the field of mineralogy. The phonetic transcription of the word "reevesite" breaks it down into three syllables, with the stress placed on the first syllable (/ri:v/), making it easier to pronounce correctly.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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REEVESITE Meaning and Definition

  1. Reevesite is a term used to refer to a rare mineral that belongs to the smectite group. It is also recognized as a clay mineral and is primarily found in hydrothermal and metasomatic environments. The mineral is named after its discoverer, Dr. Francis Jasper Turner, who identified it in the Reeves Mountain area of California, USA.

    Reevesite typically occurs as microscopic, platy or flaky crystals, which are often white, light gray, or pale yellow in color. It exhibits a pearly luster and has a relatively low hardness, making it easily breakable. Its chemical composition consists mainly of hydrated aluminum and magnesium silicate, with some traces of other elements such as iron and manganese.

    In terms of its physical properties, reevesite has a specific gravity ranging between 2.1 and 2.3. It is a non-radioactive mineral and lacks fluorescence under ultraviolet light. Its crystal structure consists of stacked layers of tetrahedral and octahedral sheets, giving it excellent water absorption capabilities.

    Due to its rarity and limited occurrence, reevesite does not hold significant economic value. However, it is of interest to scientists and researchers studying clay minerals, hydrothermal systems, and metamorphic processes. Furthermore, its unique characteristics and compositions make it a valuable tool in various scientific investigations, including geology, mineralogy, and material science.

Etymology of REEVESITE

The word "reevesite" takes its name from the mineral reevesite, which was named after Rev. William Reeves.

Rev. William Reeves (1815-1892) was an Irish clergyman, antiquarian, and scholar. He served as the Dean of Armagh and was known for his contributions to Irish history and archaeology. In 1861, he published a book titled "The Life of Saint Columba" which examined the life and works of the Irish saint.

The mineral reevesite was discovered in Ireland and described for the first time in 1866 by George Johnstone Stoney, an Irish physicist and astronomer. Stoney named the mineral after Rev. William Reeves to honor his contributions to Irish history and culture.

Therefore, the word "reevesite" is derived indirectly from the name of Rev. William Reeves, the Irish clergyman and scholar.