Definition
calcite
noun
- a common mineral form of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), typically colorless or white, used in cement, fertilizer, and other industrial products
Usage: geology; mineralogy
Examples
- Calcite is one of the most abundant minerals found in Earth's crust.
- The white cliffs of Dover are composed largely of calcite.
- Limestone and marble are both forms of calcite.
- Geologists use calcite to identify rock samples in the field.
- Calcite crystals can refract light in unusual ways, creating optical effects.
- The cave formations were made of calcite deposits over thousands of years.