silica

UK: ˈsɪlɪkə | US: ˈsɪlɪkə

Definition

  1. n. A hard, unreactive, colorless compound occurring as quartz and as a principal constituent of sandstone and other rocks.

Structure
silic <flint, hard mineral>a <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "silica" traces back to the Latin silex (genitive silicis), meaning "flint" or "hard stone." The suffix -a was added in Modern Latin to form the noun. The term reflects the mineral's prevalence in flint and quartz, emphasizing its durability and natural occurrence in rocks.

Examples

  1. Sandstone is primarily composed of silica.

  2. Silica gel is used as a desiccant to absorb moisture.

  3. The high silica content gives volcanic glass its sharp edges.

  4. Workers in mines may face health risks from silica dust.

  5. Plants like rice absorb silica from the soil to strengthen their stems.