What is silica? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of silica

silicanoun
silic
/ˈsɪlɪkə//ˈsɪlɪkə/

Where does the word silica come from?

The word "silica" originated from the Latin word "silicā," which was derived from the Latin word "silex," meaning flintstone. In ancient times, flintstones were referred to as "pratum silicis," meaning sandy places, due to the abundant amount of sand or silica present in such areas. The term "silica" came to describe a compound consisting of silicon (Si) and oxygen (O2) in a ratio of 1:2, which is found in various geological formations, including quartz, flint, and sand. Therefore, the Latin root word "silicā" evolved to represent the compound silicon dioxide (SiO2), or silica, in modern-day scientific terminology.

Vocabulary summary silica

type noun

meaning (chemistry) Silicon dioxide

Example of vocabulary silicanamespace

Silica is a commonly found mineral in sand, which is used in the production of glass and various types of ceramics.
The particles of silica in sandpaper facilitate abrasion and help to remove unwanted substances from surfaces.
Silica-based fillers are added to plastics to enhance their mechanical strength and heat resistance.
Silica gel, a form of amorphous silica, is commonly used in desiccants to absorb moisture and prevent damage to sensitive equipment.
Geologists study the properties of quartz, a form of crystalline silica, to understand geological processes such as mineral deposition and metamorphism.