mafic Definition
- 1(of rock) rich in magnesium and iron, and having a low silica content
- 2(of minerals) containing magnesium and iron
Using mafic: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mafic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The mafic rocks of the oceanic crust are denser than the felsic rocks of the continental crust.
Example
The mineral olivine is a common component of mafic rocks.
Example
The volcanic eruption produced a flow of mafic lava that covered the surrounding area.
mafic Synonyms and Antonyms
Summary: mafic in Brief
'Mafic' [ˈmeɪfɪk] describes rocks or minerals that are rich in magnesium and iron, with low silica content. It is often used to describe the composition of the oceanic crust, as well as volcanic eruptions that produce dense lava flows. Examples include 'The mafic rocks of the oceanic crust are denser than the felsic rocks of the continental crust.' and 'The volcanic eruption produced a flow of mafic lava that covered the surrounding area.'
