Definition

A dark green or black mineral that contains beryllium, iron, yttrium, and other rare earth elements, often used as a source of these materials.

Example

Gadolinite is an important mineral for extracting rare earth elements used in various technologies.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of gadolinite?

Yeah, I think it's that mineral with rare earth elements, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how it contains iron and beryllium too.

I read it's used in some technologies — pretty cool!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gadolinite → The word is derived from the name of the Swedish chemist Johan Gadolin, who first described the mineral, combined with the suffix '-ite' (meaning a mineral or rock). Gadolinite refers to a mineral named after Gadolin, indicating its origin and nature as a mineral.

Memory Tip

Think of Johan Gadolin, the chemist who discovered this mineral, and remember that 'gadolinite' is named after him, with '-ite' indicating it is a mineral.

Visually Confused Words