1. Plural of apatite; a group of phosphate minerals that are the primary source of phosphorus and are used in fertilizers, chemicals, and other industrial applications.
Usage: technical; geology/mineralogy
2. Calcium phosphate minerals found in bones and teeth; used in biomedical and dental applications.
Usage: technical; biology/medicine

Examples

• Apatites are mined extensively for use in phosphate fertilizers.
• The apatites in tooth enamel help protect against decay.
• Geologists identified several apatites in the rock samples.
• Synthetic apatites are used in bone implants and regenerative medicine.
• The deposit contains high-quality apatites suitable for industrial extraction.