refractory inclusion
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Refractory inclusions are components found in meteorites, specifically in chondrites, that are rich in elements with high melting points, such as calcium and aluminum. These are often referred to as calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs). They are among the earliest solids to form in the solar nebula, approximately 4.567 billion years ago.12
These inclusions provide crucial insights into the conditions of the early solar system. The presence of short-lived radionuclides within them suggests rapid formation events, possibly triggered by stellar winds from dying stars. Understanding refractory inclusions helps scientists piece together the processes involved in the birth and evolution of our solar system.2
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meteoriteRefractory inclusionsMinor but important constituents of chondrites are refractory inclusions. They are so termed because they are highly enriched in the least-volatile, or refractory, elements. Because calcium and aluminum are two of the most abundant refractory elements in them, they are often called calcium-aluminum-rich…
Read MoreMinor but important constituents of chondrites are refractory inclusions. They are so termed because they are highly enriched in the least-volatile, or refractory, elements. Because calcium and aluminum are two of the most abundant refractory elements in them, they are often called calcium-aluminum-rich…
Read More- meteoriteThe ages of meteorites and their components
…of approximately 4,567,000,000 years, are refractory inclusions. With a few exceptions, those are also the objects with the highest abundances of short-lived radionuclides. The absolute ages of chondrules have not been accurately measured. The abundances of the short-lived radionuclide aluminum-26 in chondrules from ordinary and carbonaceous chondrites have been interpreted…
Read More…of approximately 4,567,000,000 years, are refractory inclusions. With a few exceptions, those are also the objects with the highest abundances of short-lived radionuclides. The absolute ages of chondrules have not been accurately measured. The abundances of the short-lived radionuclide aluminum-26 in chondrules from ordinary and carbonaceous chondrites have been interpreted…
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