Siderophile vs. Lithophile — What's the Difference?

Relating to or being an element, such as gold, platinum, or iridium, that exhibits metallic bonding and has an affinity for iron. On earth, the siderophile elements are found in greatest abundance in the iron core.

Lithophiles are micro-organisms that can live within the pore interstices of sedimentary and even fractured igneous rocks to depths of several kilometers. Some are known to live on surface rocks, and make use of photosynthesis for energy.

A siderophile element.

Relating to or being a chemical element that tends to concentrate in silicate minerals. On earth, the lithophile elements are found chiefly in the crust and mantle.

In the Goldschmidt classification, an element that forms alloys easily with iron and is concentrated in the Earth's core.

A lithophile element.

A siderophile element, tissue, or cell.

In the Goldschmidt classification, an element that forms silicates or oxides and is concentrated in the minerals of the Earth's crust.

(of a cell or tissue) Having an affinity for iron.

(geology) Having an affinity for metallic iron.