Crystalline

Term: CrystallineDefinition: Describes a solid material, such as asbestos, composed of a regular, repeating pattern of atoms or molecules forming a crystal lattice.Phonetic Pronunciation: (KRIS-tuh-leen)Origin: The term "crystalline" derives from the Latin word "crystallinus," which means "of crystal," and from the Greek "krystallos," meaning "ice" or "crystal." This reflects the historical association of crystals with clear, ice-like structures.Significance in Asbestos Context: The crystalline structure of asbestos fibers is crucial because it contributes to their durability and resistance to heat and chemicals, which are properties that made asbestos widely used in industry. Understanding the crystalline nature of asbestos aids in identifying and analyzing the mineral in various materials and environments.Example Sentence: The crystalline structure of the asbestos fibers found in the building materials was confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis.Related Terms: Asbestos, Chrysotile, Amphibole, Fiber, MineralogyNotes: - Not all minerals are crystalline; some are amorphous. - The crystalline structure can be identified using techniques like X-ray diffraction. - Crystalline asbestos can pose significant health risks when its fibers are inhaled.