moolide

Moolide is a fictional mineral used in mineralogy education and speculative fiction to illustrate crystallography, phase relations, and hydrothermal processes. It is not a confirmed natural species, but serves as a generic model for classroom demonstrations and world-building.

In educational schemata, moolide is described as forming in high-temperature hydrothermal veins within mafic rocks and in metamorphosed basalts. The name is arbitrary, chosen for its distinctive sound and ease of use in illustrations of mineral growth.

Physical properties commonly attributed to moolide in teaching materials include a monoclinic or orthorhombic crystal system, translucent crystals that range from pale green to blue, a Mohs hardness of about 5–6, and a measured density near 3.0–3.5 g/cm3. It is described as having a vitreous to pearly luster.

Chemical properties emphasize a silicate framework with variable cation substitution, typically featuring magnesium, iron, and aluminum in different proportions, and containing hydroxide or oxide groups. In curricula, a simplified general formula is used to illustrate how solid-solution series operate in minerals.

Occurrence and synthesis: In schematic geology, moolide coexists with common rock-forming minerals such as feldspars and amphiboles in idealized assemblages. Researchers and educators also synthesize moolide analogs in hydrothermal chambers to demonstrate crystal growth and phase relations.

Uses and significance: As a teaching tool, moolide helps students visualize concepts of crystal habit, bonding, and thermodynamic stability. In fiction and world-building, it may symbolize resilience or exotic mineral wealth.

Etymology: The name moolide has no established link to real places or people; it is a constructed label used in educational and speculative contexts.