achondrite
Noun: A type of stony meteorite that does not contain chondrules. Chondrules are small, round, solidified droplets of silicate minerals that are characteristic of the more common chondrite meteorites. Achondrites are differentiated meteorites, meaning they have undergone processes of melting and recrystallization, often originating from larger planetary bodies like asteroids or planets (e.g., Mars, the Moon).
The term is used in planetary science, astronomy, and geology to classify and describe a specific category of meteorites based on their composition and formation history.
Examples: * The analysis confirmed the rock was an achondrite, likely from the Martian surface. * Scientists study achondrites to understand the geological processes of other planetary bodies. * This particular achondrite lacks the chondritic structure found in most primitive meteorites.
- Planetary Achondrite: A sub-classification specifying an achondrite believed to originate from a known planetary body, such as the Moon or Mars.
- The lunar achondrite provided direct evidence of the Moon's volcanic history.
- Achondritic (adjective): Pertaining to or having the characteristics of an achondrite.
- The sample showed an achondritic texture.
- Differentiated stony meteorite
- Non-chondritic meteorite
- Chondrite (a stony meteorite containing chondrules)
- a stony meteor lacking chondrules