Decrepitation

/dɪˌkrepɪˈteɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The crackling or popping sound and process that occurs when certain minerals, salts, or crystals are heated.

Etymology

From Latin 'decrepitatio,' derived from 'decrepitare' (to crackle). The -tion suffix converts the verb to a noun describing the action or process.

Kelly Says

Geologists and chemists use 'decrepitation' to study what's trapped inside minerals—the crackling sounds can reveal secrets about ancient fluids locked in crystals!

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