What does nickeline mean?
Nickeline, also known as niccolite or kupfernickel, is a rare mineral composed of nickel arsenide (NiAs). It has a metallic luster and is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. As a nickel ore, nickeline is of interest to geologists and mining industries. Although not commonly encountered, nickeline provides valuable nickel, an essential component in stainless steel, coins, and electronics. Its distinct composition and limited occurrence make nickeline a notable subject in mineralogy.
nounNickeline is a mineral, a nickel arsenide (NiAs) with a metallic luster.
- A mineral composed of nickel arsenide.
- A rare ore of nickel.
"The geologist identified the sample as nickeline, a rare nickel ore."
"The mine produced a small quantity of nickeline."
"Nickeline is often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks."
rarely used in plural form
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of nickeline
The term nickeline originates from the German 'Nickelin', derived from 'Nickel', referring to the mineral's nickel content. Nickeline is related to the word nickel, a chemical element with the symbol Ni.
How nickeline is actually used
Formal or technical contexts, often in geology or mineralogy.