Origin Of Chondrules And Chondrites (2004)(en)(209s)

This page intentionally left blank T H E O RI GIN OF CHONDRUL ES AND CHONDRI TES Chondrites are the largest group of meteorites. They can provide unique insights into the origins and early evolution of our Solar System, and even into the relationships between our Solar System and other stars in the vicinity of our Sun. The largest structural components of most chondrites are the glass-bearing chondrules, and there are numerous theories for their origin. This clear and systematic text summarizes the ideas surrounding the origin and history of chondrules and chondrites, drawing on research from the various scientific disciplines involved. With citations to every known published paper on the topic, it forms a comprehensive bibliography of the latest research, and extensive illustrations provide a clear visual representation of the scientific theories. This text will be a valuable reference for graduate students and researchers in planetary science, geology, and astronomy. Derek Sears was born in England and obtained a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at the University of Kent at Canterbury, and a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Geology at the University of Leicester. He is now Professor of Chemistry and Director of the Arkansas–Oklahoma Center for Space and Planetary Sciences. He teaches chemistry and performs meteorite research, and is currently involved in creating new research and graduate teaching programs in space and planetary sciences. Professor Sears is probably best known for his pioneering studies on the use of thermoluminescence to characterize primitive meteorites and to determine the thermal and radiation history of Antarctic meteorites. In 1999 he received the University of Arkansas’ highest award for research and service, and asteroid 4473 Sears was named