magnesite

[ mag-nuh-sahyt ]

noun

1. a mineral, magnesium carbonate, MgCO 3 , having a characteristic conchoidal fracture and usually occurring in white masses.

magnesite

/ ˈmæɡnɪˌsaɪt /

noun

1. a white, colourless, or lightly tinted mineral consisting of naturally occurring magnesium carbonate in hexagonal crystalline form: a source of magnesium and also used in the manufacture of refractory bricks. Formula: MgCO 3

Word History and Origins

Origin of magnesite¹

1805–15; magnes(ia) + -ite ¹; compare French magnésite

Word History and Origins

Origin of magnesite¹

C19: from magnesium + -ite ¹

Example Sentences

The magnesite readily gives up carbonic acid, which fills the tube and sweeps the mercury vapour before it.

From Project Gutenberg

As carbonate it occurs in large quantity as magnesite (MgCO3), which is the chief source of magnesia.

From Project Gutenberg

All carbonates are soluble with effervescence in dilute acids; some, such as chalybite and magnesite, require the aid of heat.

From Project Gutenberg

The salt may be obtained from Kieserite: formerly it was prepared by treating magnesite or dolomite with sulphuric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Other votive inscriptions are found on rings and on knobs of ivory or magnesite.

From Project Gutenberg