Actinolite facts for kids
Actinolite is a fascinating mineral found all over the world. It often appears in beautiful shades of green, from light green to dark green-black. You might also find it in gray-green or even black. This mineral is made up of tiny crystals. Its name comes from the Greek word "aktinos," which means "ray." This name describes how Actinolite often forms in long, thin crystals that look like rays.
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What is Actinolite?
Actinolite is a type of mineral. Minerals are natural substances found in the Earth's crust. They have a specific chemical makeup and a unique crystal structure. Actinolite belongs to a group of minerals called amphiboles.
Where is Actinolite Found?
You can find Actinolite in many places around the globe. It forms inside metamorphic rocks. Metamorphic rocks are rocks that have changed over time due to heat and pressure deep within the Earth. This process transforms existing rocks into new ones.
What Does Actinolite Look Like?
Actinolite crystals can be various colors. They are usually green, green-black, gray-green, or sometimes black. The crystals often grow in long, needle-like shapes. This is why its name means "ray," as these crystals can look like rays of light.
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See also
In Spanish: Actinolita para niños