1. Generic name for a class of minerals with compositions that are variants of the formula D5T3M, where D is a divalent cation, T is a trivalent tetrahedral compound ion, and M is a monovalent anion; calcium phosphate apatites are important mineral constituents of bones and teeth. See hydroxyapatite. 2. Ca5(PO4)3(OH,F,Cl).
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ap·a·tite 'ap-ə-.tīt n any of a group of calcium phosphate minerals occurring variously as hexagonal crystals, as granular masses, or in fine-grained masses as the chief constituent of bones and teeth and of phosphate rock esp calcium phosphate fluoride Ca5F(PO4)3
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ap·a·tite (apґə-tīt) [Gr. apatan to deceive] any of a group of minerals with the general formula 10Ca2+: 6PO43−: X− where X is a monovalent anion such as a chloride, carbonate, fluoride, or hydroxyl ion; when it contains a hydroxyl ion the compound is hydroxyapatite (q.v.), an important inorganic constituent of teeth and bones.Medical dictionary. 2011.