mafic (MAF-ik) - adj., of, relating to, or being a group of dark silicate minerals high in magnesium and iron.
Especially in terms of igneous rocks formed from mafic, as opposed to felsic, magma. Basalt, gabbro, and dolorite are all common mafic rocks. Coined in 1912 as a portmanteau of magnesium and ferric.
---L.
Especially in terms of igneous rocks formed from mafic, as opposed to felsic, magma. Basalt, gabbro, and dolorite are all common mafic rocks. Coined in 1912 as a portmanteau of magnesium and ferric.
---L.