magnesite

[ mag-nuh-sahyt ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a mineral, magnesium carbonate, MgCO 3 , having a characteristic conchoidal fracture and usually occurring in white masses.

magnesite

/ ˈmæɡnɪˌsaɪt /

a white, colourless, or lightly tinted mineral consisting of naturally occurring magnesium carbonate in hexagonal crystalline form: a source of magnesium and also used in the manufacture of refractory bricks. Formula: MgCO 3

1805–15; magnes(ia) + -ite ¹; compare French magnésite

C19: from magnesium + -ite ¹

The magnesite readily gives up carbonic acid, which fills the tube and sweeps the mercury vapour before it.

As carbonate it occurs in large quantity as magnesite (MgCO3), which is the chief source of magnesia.

All carbonates are soluble with effervescence in dilute acids; some, such as chalybite and magnesite, require the aid of heat.

The salt may be obtained from Kieserite: formerly it was prepared by treating magnesite or dolomite with sulphuric acid.

Other votive inscriptions are found on rings and on knobs of ivory or magnesite.

April 25, 2024firkin

[fur-kin ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse