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Published on: July 1, 2019
The meteorite-asteroid connection: two olivine-rich asteroids.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|January 20, 1984
Summary
Two asteroids show pure olivine surfaces, suggesting exposed asteroid mantles. These space rocks may be parent bodies for unique olivine meteorites like Brachina and pallasites.
Area of Science:
- Asteroid petrology
- Meteorite science
- Planetary science
Background:
- Asteroid surfaces provide clues to their internal composition.
- Differentiated asteroids are expected to have distinct mantle compositions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify asteroids with unique surface compositions.
- To investigate potential parent bodies for specific meteorite types.
Main Methods:
- Spectral analysis of asteroid surfaces.
- Comparison of asteroid surface data with meteorite compositions.
Main Results:
- Two asteroids exhibit surfaces rich in pure olivine, lacking pyroxene or plagioclase.
- These findings suggest exposed mantle material from fragmented differentiated asteroids.
Conclusions:
- These olivine-rich asteroids are strong candidates for the parent bodies of Brachina and pallasite meteorites.
- The study enhances understanding of asteroid differentiation and mantle exposure processes.
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