0000000000336135
AUTHOR
H. Palme
Trace elements in natural metallic iron from Disko Island, Greenland
The largest occurrence of natural metallic iron on Earth is on the island of Disko, Greenland. Metallic iron is found there in a variety of different types, from small metal particles in basalts to large meter-sized blocks. We have studied three different types of metallic iron: small metal spherules (< 300 μm) in basaltic magma; larger metal grains (300 μm-3 mm), often composed of aggregates of smaller particles, in similar host rocks; and massive iron lumps (up to several tons). Analytical data for 13 siderophile elements in samples from these three types are presented. All metals analysed have a distinctly crustal pattern of siderophile elements. High Co/Ni, Re/Ir or W/Ir ratios clearly …
DIRECT EVIDENCE FOR CONDENSATION IN THE EARLY SOLAR SYSTEM AND IMPLICATIONS FOR NEBULAR COOLING RATES
We have identified in an acid resistant residue of the carbonaceous chondrite Murchison a large number (458) of highly refractory metal nuggets (RMNs) that once were most likely hosted by Ca,Al-rich inclusions (CAIs). While osmium isotopic ratios of two randomly selected particles rule out a presolar origin, the bulk chemistry of 88 particles with sizes in the submicron range determined by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy shows striking agreement with predictions of single-phase equilibrium condensation calculations. Both chemical composition and morphology strongly favor a condensation origin. Particularly important is the presence of structurally incompatible elements in particl…