Barite

/ˈbæɹaɪt/ noun

Definition

A white or colorless mineral made of barium sulfate, commonly used in drilling fluids, paint, and medical X-ray procedures.

Etymology

From Greek 'barys' meaning 'heavy', referencing the mineral's high density; the term was coined because barite sinks quickly in water.

Kelly Says

Barite is the invisible hero of oil drilling—it's so heavy and dense that when mixed with drilling mud, it keeps wells from exploding upward, potentially saving lives every single day.

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