Olivine

Olivine is a common rock-forming mineral found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks. It's a magnesium iron silicate ((Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄), characterized by its typically olive-green color, though it can range from yellow-green to brownish-green depending on its iron content. Olivine's composition varies between forsterite (magnesium-rich) and fayalite (iron-rich). It's a key component of the Earth's mantle and also found in meteorites. It has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, and crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. Its presence can indicate specific geological conditions, and it's sometimes used in refractories. Its color comes from traces of iron content.

Olivine meaning with examples

• The geologist examined the basalt, noting the presence of small, glassy olivine crystals embedded within the rock matrix. These green flecks were a clear indication of the magma's slow cooling process. The texture and the mineral's distinctive color allowed for rapid identification, confirming the rock's volcanic origin and likely composition deep within the mantle.
• During the volcanic eruption, lava flow contained a substantial amount of olivine, forming distinctive 'phenocrysts' within the rapidly cooled rock. Analyzing the ratio of forsterite and fayalite within these olivine crystals offered insights into the lava's temperature and the depth from which it originated. The mineral's presence helped scientists model the event.
• The mantle rock samples collected during the drilling operation revealed a high concentration of olivine. Studying the composition of this mineral helped the researchers understand the Earth's internal structure and the processes driving plate tectonics. Investigating the olivine's chemical makeup and its physical properties was crucial.
• Researchers used olivine as a potential catalyst in CO2 capture, trying to create pathways for carbon sequestration. Its ability to react with carbon dioxide under certain conditions makes it an interesting material for the development of innovative methods to mitigate climate change. Further testing and refinement are required.
• The meteorites, which crashed down, showcased different types of extraterrestrial olivine. Spectroscopic analyses of the mineral revealed clues about the formation of our solar system. The analysis provided new information about the formation conditions and the possibility of extraterrestrial minerals with the same characteristics as terrestrial rocks.