IIE iron meteorite
IIE | |
---|---|
— Group — | |
The Weekeroo Station meteorite, an IIE iron meteorite | |
Type | Iron |
Structural classification | Octahedrite |
Class | Nonmagmatic |
Parent body | Probably 6 Hebe |
Total known specimens | 21 as of 2009 |
The iron meteorites of the IIE chemical type are octahedrites of various coarseness, most of which contain numerous inclusions of recrystallized stony silicates.
Composition and origin[]
They have mineral compositions and oxygen isotope ratios very similar to the H chondrites, which makes it probable that they originate from the same parent body. The best candidate for this parent body is the S-type asteroid 6 Hebe.[1] Unlike most iron meteorites, the type IIE are thought to have been melted out of the chondritic surface of the parent asteroid by impacts during its early history.
Rarity[]
It is a rare type with 24 known members as of 2020.[2]
See also[]
References[]
Categories:
- Meteorite groups
- Meteorite stubs