ANATEXIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Anatexis is a geological process characterized by the partial or complete melting of rocks due to high temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth's crust. This term is derived from the Greek words "ana" which means "upwards" or "again," and "texis" which means "melt" or "liquefy." It is primarily associated with the metamorphic transformation of rocks, particularly in areas experiencing intense tectonic activity.
During anatexis, rocks may undergo partial melting, resulting in the separation of minerals and formation of a molten or partially molten material, known as magma. This magma is often more felsic (rich in silica, aluminum, and potassium) compared to the original rock, as certain mineral components are prone to melting at relatively low temperatures. Anatexis can occur either by the rise of the geothermal gradient or the introduction of external heat sources, such as magmatic intrusions or the movement of hot fluids.
The process of anatexis plays a crucial role in the formation of igneous rocks as it provides the initial source material for magma generation. It also contributes to the development of different metamorphic facies and allows for the redistribution and reorganization of elements and minerals within the Earth's crust. Additionally, anatexis helps to drive geological processes such as crustal differentiation, magma ascent, and volcanic activity, as the resultant magma has the potential to rise towards the surface to form intrusive structures or erupt as volcanic material.
Common Misspellings for ANATEXIS
- znatexis
- snatexis
- wnatexis
- qnatexis
- abatexis
- amatexis
- ajatexis
- ahatexis
- anztexis
- anstexis
- anwtexis
- anqtexis
- anarexis
- anafexis
- anagexis
- anayexis
- ana6exis
- ana5exis
- anatwxis
- anatsxis
Etymology of ANATEXIS
The word "anatexis" is derived from the Greek language. It combines two Greek terms: "ana", meaning "up" or "again", and "texis", which means "to melt" or "to dissolve". In geological contexts, anatexis refers to the process of partial melting of rocks within the Earth's crust or mantle. This term was first used in the field of petrology and geology in the early 20th century.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
