Definition of apatite

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< apathy

apatosaur >

ap·a·tite

(

-t

) KEY

NOUN:

A natural, variously colored calcium fluoride phosphate, Ca₅F(PO₄)₃, with chlorine, hydroxyl, or carbonate sometimes replacing the fluoride. It is a source of phosphorus for plants and is used in the manufacture of fertilizers.

ETYMOLOGY:
From Greek apat, deceit (from its often being mistaken for other minerals)

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