Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
aphanitic
adjective
ˌæfəˈnɪtɪk
Definition
A term used in geology to describe an igneous rock texture that is fine-grained with crystals that are too small to be seen by the naked eye.
Examples
- The volcanic rock was described as aphanitic due to its tiny crystals.
- Aphanitic textures are often found in basalt and rhyolite rocks.
Meaning
Aphanitic refers to rocks that have a very fine-grained texture, indicating that they cooled quickly from molten lava or magma.
Synonyms
- fine-grained
- microcrystalline
