Catogenic

/ˌkætəˈdʒɛnɪk/ adjective

Definition

Formed or produced by downward-acting geological processes, or relating to the formation of minerals and rocks through subsidence and burial.

Etymology

From Greek 'kata' (down) + 'genic' (producing). Related to catogene, this describes the process rather than the product.

Kelly Says

Geologists use 'catogenic' to describe how heat and pressure from burial create new minerals and rocks—essentially the planet's recycling system where old rocks get remade into new ones.

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