Exsolve

/ɛkˈsɑlv/ verb

Definition

To separate out as a distinct phase from a solid solution, used in geology to describe mineral changes.

Etymology

Back-formation from 'exsolution,' using the '-ve' infinitive ending, entered geology vocabulary in the early 20th century.

Kelly Says

Geologists watch minerals exsolve under a microscope and it's like watching a tiny crystal drama—one mineral phase decides it doesn't want to hang out with another and they split apart!

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