Hydrated amorphous silica is essentially non-crystalline hydrated silica, commonly known as opal.
This material is a form of silicon dioxide (silica) that contains water molecules within its structure. Unlike crystalline silica, which has a highly ordered atomic arrangement, amorphous silica lacks this long-range order, meaning its atoms are arranged randomly.
The term "hydrated" indicates the presence of water within the silica structure, typically incorporated during its formation. This water content can vary.
Based on the provided information, this non-crystalline (amorphous) form of hydrated silica is specifically called opal. It is often found forming distinct structures and is sometimes referred to by names such as:
- “Silica bodies”
- “Plant opal”
- “Opaline silica”
These alternative names often relate to the context in which the hydrated amorphous silica is found, such as microscopic structures in plants or certain geological formations.
In summary, hydrated amorphous silica is the scientific term for opal, a naturally occurring material characterized by its disordered structure and water content.
