M
Montdorite

A trioctahedral member of the true mica group. The ideal formula is KFe2+1.5Mn2+0.5Mg0.5 v0.5Si4O10F2 ( where v = vacancy) and this formula does not represent an end-member species. A typical range in composition is: Fe2+ > Mn2+ + Mg (Rieder et al., 1998). Robert and Maury (1979) originally described montdorite-1M from a peralkaline rhyolite of the Mont-Dore massif, France, in space group C2/m.

Monte Carlo molecular simulation (MC)

A classical molecular simulation approach, based on the Metropolis Monte Carlo algorithm, for calculating ensemble averages of structural properties. The model system evolves based on random moves (e.g., atom or molecular translation, system volume) that are accepted or rejected using a Boltzmann algorithm. System constraints (e.g., constant volume, temperature, pressure) usually correspond to a thermodynamic ensemble.
Cf., force field, Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulation, molecular dynamics, quantum calculation

Montmorillonite

A dioctahedral member of the smectite group of minerals. A representative formula is: R0.33(Al1.67Mg0.33)Si4O10(OH)2.nH2O. Montmorillonite is Al-rich and capable of cation exchange (the exchangeable cation is depicted as R in the formula, n is a rational number, not necessarily an integer). The origin of the layer charge is in the octahedral sheet. In older literature, montmorillonite was used as a group name, which is replaced by the group name, smectite.
See also Part 1 of the Glossary for terms that are obsolete: Wyoming-type, Otay-type, Chambers-type, Tatatila-type, beidellite-type (ideal and non-ideal), and non-ideal montmorillonite.
Cf., smectite

Montmorillonite-saponite group

Old group name superceded by smectite. See also Part 2 of the Glossary.
Cf., smectite

Mordenite

See zeolite.

Morencite

An obsolete term for nontronite from Morenci, Arizona, USA.

Morphology (soil micromorphology)

In soil science, the geometry and surface topology of a soil particle. The term may also be used as a study of soil horizons and soil properties.

Mortar

Mortar is a binder used between blocks or bricks or to coat ceilings and walls. Mortar is produced by mixing lime, pozzolan, or (Portland) cement with sand or gravel and appropriate amounts of water. The hydraulic reaction of water and lime or cement determines the characteristics of the binder, such as strength and other binding properties.
Cf., Portland cement, cement

Motukoreaite
Mountkeithite