Calcareous
Calcareous
Calcareous (pronunciation: /kælˈkɛəriəs/) is a term used in geology, biology, and medicine to describe substances or structures that are rich in calcium carbonate. The term is derived from the Latin word "calx" meaning "lime".
Etymology
The term "calcareous" is derived from the Latin "calx" which translates to "lime". This is in reference to the high calcium carbonate content found in calcareous substances.
In Geology
In geology, calcareous refers to rocks, sediments, or soil types that are rich in calcium carbonate. This includes certain types of limestone and chalk, which are formed from the skeletal remains of marine organisms.
In Biology
In biology, calcareous is used to describe organisms or structures that are composed of or contain a significant amount of calcium carbonate. This includes the shells of many marine organisms such as mollusks and corals, as well as the eggshells of birds and reptiles.
In Medicine
In medicine, calcareous is used to describe deposits of calcium carbonate that can form in various parts of the body, often as a result of certain diseases or conditions. These deposits, known as calcification, can occur in the arteries, heart valves, kidneys, and other tissues.
Related Terms
- Calcification: The process by which tissues or non-cellular substances in the body become hardened as a result of calcium salt deposits.
- Calcium Carbonate: A common substance found in rocks and the main component of shells of marine organisms, snails, and eggshells.
- Limestone: A sedimentary rock that is the most common form of calcium carbonate.
- Chalk: A soft, white, porous sedimentary rock, a form of limestone composed of the mineral calcite.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Calcareous
- Wikipedia's article - Calcareous
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