SIDEROLITES Meaning and
Definition
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Siderolites, plural of siderolite, are a type of meteorite composed of a significant proportion of metallic iron (Fe), along with various silicates and other minerals. Siderolites belong to the larger category of stony-iron meteorites, which contain both silicate material and metallic iron, making them unique among meteorites.
The term "siderolite" originates from the Greek words "sideros," meaning iron, and "lithos," meaning stone. This name reflects the distinctive composition of these meteorites, where iron content is often greater than 30% by weight. Siderolites are believed to have originated from the disrupted core-mantle boundary regions of differentiated asteroids or other celestial bodies, where silicates and metallic iron mixed during planetary formation processes.
These meteorites can exhibit a wide range of appearances, but they often display a characteristic Widmanstätten pattern. This intricate interlocking pattern forms due to the slow cooling of metallic iron over millions of years within the parent body. Siderolites may also contain various types of silicates, such as olivine and pyroxene, which give them a mottled appearance.
Siderolites are of considerable scientific interest as they provide valuable insights into the geophysical and geochemical processes that occurred during the development of the early solar system. They offer clues about planetary differentiation, core formation, and impact processes. Due to their rarity and scientific value, siderolites are highly sought after by collectors and researchers studying space science.
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Meteoric stones, chiefly consisting of iron.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SIDEROLITES
- siderolites
- syderolites
- aiderolites
- ziderolites
- xiderolites
- diderolites
- eiderolites
- widerolites
- suderolites
- sjderolites
- skderolites
- soderolites
- s9derolites
- s8derolites
- siserolites
- sixerolites
- sicerolites
- siferolites
- sirerolites
- sieerolites
Etymology of SIDEROLITES
The word "siderolites" is derived from the Ancient Greek words "sideros" meaning "iron" and "lithos" meaning "stone" or "meteorite". The term "siderolites" is used in meteoritics to refer to stony meteorites that contain a considerable amount of metallic iron or iron-nickel alloy.
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