ScienceAugust 15, 2026
serpentinization
sur-pen-tih-nih-ZAY-shun
Definition
A geological process where iron-rich rocks react with water at high temperatures beneath the Earth's surface, resulting in the production of hydrogen gas.
Etymology
The word is derived from 'serpentine,' a group of minerals that are often green and mottled like a snake's skin (from Latin 'serpens,' meaning snake). The suffix '-ization' denotes the chemical or geological process of forming or transforming into these minerals.
In the news
The article identifies serpentinization as one of the two primary natural processes creating underground hydrogen deposits, which Saskatchewan companies are now attempting to extract for energy.
Instead of making hydrogen, this Canadian company is drilling for it
Read the full article ↗CBC