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groundmass
[ ground-mas ]
noun
- the crystalline, granular, or glassy base or matrix of a porphyritic or other igneous rock, in which the more prominent crystals are embedded.
groundmass
/ ˈɡraʊndˌmæs /
noun
- the matrix of igneous rocks, such as porphyry, in which larger crystals (phenocrysts) are embedded
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Word History and Origins
Origin of groundmass1
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Example Sentences
The felted or hyalopilitic texture is the most common, and plagioclase is the principal groundmass constituent.
From Project Gutenberg
In a basal flow in Moraine Park, the slaggy and compact phases show differences in phenocrysts as well as in groundmass.
From Project Gutenberg
These lavas have groundmass textures that vary from almost holo-crystalline to glassy.
From Project Gutenberg
Pyroxene, quartz and augite form the groundmass, as seen in section.
From Project Gutenberg
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