siliceous
Pronunciation: [sɪˈlɪʃ.əs]
Word
Context: "geology"
(adjective) relating to or containing silica, which is a hard mineral found in rocks and sand. When we say something is siliceous, we mean it has a lot of silica in it, making it strong and sturdy.
Example
The siliceous rocks were tough enough to withstand heavy weathering.
Example
The soft clay was not siliceous and crumbled easily under pressure.
Example
Can you identify the siliceous materials in this rock sample?
Context: "biology"
(adjective) describing certain organisms that have silica in their structures, like some types of plants or algae. This means that they have silica built into them, which can help them stay strong and survive in their environment.
Example
Diatoms are siliceous algae that are important for aquatic ecosystems.
Example
Flowering plants are not siliceous because they do not contain silica in their structures.
Example
What makes diatoms different from other types of algae in terms of being siliceous?
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