pseudomorphosis Definition
- 1the process of one mineral or crystal changing into another mineral or crystal while retaining the original shape
- 2a false or deceptive change in form or structure
Using pseudomorphosis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pseudomorphosis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The pseudomorphosis of pyrite to limonite is a common example of mineral replacement.
Example
The artist used pseudomorphosis to create an optical illusion in his painting.
pseudomorphosis Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for pseudomorphosis
Phrases with pseudomorphosis
the process of one mineral being replaced by another mineral with a different chemical composition
Example
The chemical pseudomorphosis of aragonite to calcite is a well-known phenomenon.
the process of one mineral being replaced by another mineral with a different crystal structure
Example
The crystal pseudomorphosis of quartz to chalcedony is a fascinating geological occurrence.
a rock that has undergone pseudomorphosis, resulting in a change in mineral composition while retaining the original shape
Example
Serpentinite is a pseudomorphic rock that was formed by the pseudomorphosis of olivine and pyroxene.
Origins of pseudomorphosis
from Greek 'pseudes' meaning 'false' and 'morphosis' meaning 'formation'
Summary: pseudomorphosis in Brief
Pseudomorphosis [soo-doh-mawr-fuh-sis] refers to the process of one mineral or crystal changing into another mineral or crystal while retaining the original shape. It can also mean a false or deceptive change in form or structure. Examples include the pseudomorphosis of pyrite to limonite and the use of pseudomorphosis in art to create optical illusions. Other forms of pseudomorphosis include chemical and crystal pseudomorphosis, as well as pseudomorphic rocks.
