Anatase

/ˈænəteis/ noun

Definition

A common mineral form of titanium dioxide, typically blue or brown in color, used in paints, ceramics, and cosmetics.

Etymology

From Greek anatasis (extension), named for the crystal's elongated shape. First formally described in the 19th century as a distinct mineral variety.

Kelly Says

Anatase is literally in your sunscreen—it's one of the main types of titanium dioxide that blocks UV rays, and its crystal structure is so useful that nanotechnologists are now engineering it for solar panels.

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