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Mobile App Chapter 12: Problem 13
An iron meteorite most likely came from a. an undifferentiated asteroid. b. a differentiated asteroid. c. a planet. d. a comet.
Short Answer
Expert verified
b. a differentiated asteroid.
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Composition of an Iron Meteorite
Iron meteorites are primarily composed of metallic iron and nickel. This composition suggests a particular origin related to the processes that form these metals.
02
Differentiate Between Asteroids and Comets
Asteroids are rocky bodies found primarily between Mars and Jupiter, while comets are icy bodies that originate from the outer regions of the solar system, such as the Kuiper Belt or Oort Cloud.
03
Identify Undifferentiated and Differentiated Asteroids
Undifferentiated asteroids have a uniform composition throughout as they haven’t melted, while differentiated asteroids have layers of different materials, including a metallic core.
04
Link Iron Meteorites to Differentiated Bodies
Iron meteorites are believed to come from the core region of differentiated asteroids because their composition results from melting and segregation, where heavy metals sink to form a core.
05
Evaluate the Options
From the options given: a. An undifferentiated asteroid - does not have segregated metal cores. b. A differentiated asteroid - contains metal cores, fitting the description of an iron meteorite's origin. c. A planet - is less likely, as meteorites from distant planets are rare. d. A comet - primarily made of ice, unlikely to produce iron meteorites.
06
Select the Correct Answer
The most likely source of an iron meteorite is b. a differentiated asteroid.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
asteroids
Asteroids are fascinating rocky objects orbiting primarily in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. They vary greatly in size, from tiny pebbles to massive bodies that are hundreds of kilometers in diameter. Unlike comets, which are made of ice and dust, asteroids are composed mostly of rock and metal. Right now, scientists believe that studying asteroids can give us clues about the early solar system. Understanding their composition and behavior helps astronomers trace the history and formation of our planetary neighborhood.
differentiated asteroid
A differentiated asteroid is one that has gone through the process of differentiation. In simpler terms, this means that the asteroid was once molten and that this internal heat caused the materials inside to separate into layers. The densest materials, like metals (iron and nickel), sank to the core, while lighter elements, such as silicates, rose to the surface. This process results in a layered structure similar to that found in planets. Differentiated asteroids are particularly interesting because they can produce iron meteorites when shattered by collisions, sending fragments towards Earth.
meteorite composition
Meteorites are classified based on their composition. There are primarily three categories: stony, iron, and stony-iron meteorites. Iron meteorites mainly consist of iron and nickel and are known for their dense, metallic nature. This composition suggests they originate from the cores of differentiated asteroids where heavy metals accumulate. In contrast, stony meteorites are made of silicate minerals and represent material similar to the crust of their parent bodies. Stony-iron meteorites contain a mix of metallic and silicate materials, indicating complex formation processes involving both the core and outer layers of their parent asteroids.
space objects differentiation
The concept of differentiation in space objects is essential to understanding how these bodies develop and evolve. Differentiation occurs when a body becomes hot enough to melt, allowing heavier elements to sink to the center and lighter elements to rise to the surface. This process creates a layered structure within the body. Differentiation can happen in both planets and large asteroids. In planetary science, recognizing differentiated bodies is crucial because it tells us a lot about the thermal history and interior composition of these objects. Differentiated asteroids, due to their layered structures, are significant sources of iron meteorites found on Earth.
