Definition of apatite
: any of a group of calcium phosphate minerals occurring in various colors as hexagonal crystals, as granular masses, or in fine-grained masses as the chief constituent of phosphate rock and of bones and teeth; especially : calcium phosphate fluoride
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When uranium decays to lead, a natural process that happens at a steady rate, the split leaves a tiny track in the apatite that is visible under a microscope.
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Origin and Etymology of apatite
German Apatit, from Greek apatē deceit
Medical Dictionary
apatite
playMedical Definition of apatite
: any of a group of calcium phosphate minerals occurring variously as hexagonal crystals, as granular masses, or in fine-grained masses as the chief constituent of bones and teeth and of phosphate rock; especially : calcium phosphate fluoride Ca5F(PO4)3
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about apatite
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