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Phase chemistry, structure, and radiation effects in lunar samples
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|January 30, 1970
Summary
Lunar regolith chemistry and structure reveal its formation during accretion and modification by impacts and radiation. Analysis of rock, breccia, and soil indicates a shared pre-lunar origin for these materials.
Area of Science:
- Lunar geology
- Cosmochemistry
- Planetary science
Background:
- Lunar regolith is a complex mixture of materials formed by various geological processes.
- Understanding regolith composition provides insights into the Moon's formation and evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phase chemistry, structure, and radiation effects in lunar rock, breccia, and soil samples.
- To determine the origin and evolution of lunar regolith and its constituent materials.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of phase chemistry and structure of lunar samples.
- Study of radiation weathering effects.
- Determination of exposure ages.
Main Results:
- Regolith formation occurred during late accretion stages, modified by impacts and radiation.
- Igneous rock fragments, soil, and breccia share a common, pre-lunar chemistry.
- Exposure ages suggest late-stage transfer of buried rocks to the surface.
- Igneous rocks resemble basaltic achondrites; soil and breccia contain chondrule-like glassy spheres.
Conclusions:
- Lunar regolith chemistry and structure are primarily inherited from pre-lunar materials.
- Impacts and radiation weathering significantly altered the regolith after its initial formation.
- The findings support a model of lunar formation involving the accretion of pre-existing materials.
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