Durain

/ˈdjʊəreɪn/ noun

Definition

A hard, lustrous type of coal or coal component that is dull black and breaks with a smooth, shell-like surface.

Etymology

From Latin 'durus' (hard) plus the suffix '-ain.' A geological term coined to describe a specific maceral (distinct component) in coal.

Kelly Says

Coal isn't just one substance—it's made of different microscopic components like 'durain' with different properties, and geologists can identify types of ancient plants by studying coal's composition!

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