Geogen

/ˈdʒiːoʊ.dʒɛn/ noun

Definition

A substance or material derived from or originating within the Earth; material of geological rather than biological origin.

Etymology

From geo- (Earth) + -gen (from Greek 'genos' meaning 'born of' or 'produced by'). A technical term used primarily in geology and mineralogy.

Kelly Says

Distinguishing between 'geogenic' (Earth-made) and 'biogenic' (life-made) materials is crucial for understanding whether a rock layer tells us about ancient volcanoes or ancient seas full of plankton.

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