Abyssolith

/əˈbɪs.ə.lɪθ/ noun

Definition

A rock or mineral deposit found in the deepest zones of the ocean, formed under extreme pressure and temperature.

Etymology

Compound of 'abysso-' (from Greek 'abyssos,' without bottom) and '-lith' (from Greek 'lithos,' stone), literally meaning 'abyss stone' or deep-ocean rock.

Kelly Says

Abyssolith rocks are being studied now because they might contain clues about Earth's interior and could potentially provide new resources—the deep ocean is basically an alien world on our own planet!

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