New Minerals Discovered in Meteorites: Unveiling the Secrets of These Space Stones
The mysteries of the Universe are vast and ever-expanding, but thanks to the arrival of meteorites on Earth, we are able to catch a glimpse into the unknown. Meteorites, the remains of ancient asteroids, comets, and planets, provide scientists with invaluable information about the origin and evolution of our Universe. Among these space stones, researchers have discovered new minerals that have not been previously found on Earth. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of meteorite minerals and explore what they can teach us about space.
Every year, approximately two thousand tonnes of meteorites fall to Earth. However, our atmosphere shields us from this constant barrage of stones, with most of them burning up before reaching the surface. Those that do make it through become subjects of study and trade. These extraterrestrial visitors often consist of familiar elements such as silicates, iron, nickel, and other metals that can be found here on Earth. However, within these meteorites, scientists have unearthed new combinations of elements that form unique minerals, providing us with invaluable insights into the universe.
In 2019, a meteorite minerals catalogue was released by scientists in the United States, Germany, and Russia. This catalogue contains over 500 minerals, with about 70 of them being either completely new or possessing unusual properties. It is a constantly evolving resource that expands our understanding of space.
One remarkable discovery came in 2020 when an enormous iron block weighing almost 17 tonnes was found in Somalia. This meteorite, known as the El Ali meteorite, had been known to locals for generations and was even mentioned in their folklore and songs. A sample of the meteorite was sent to the University of Alberta for classification, where it ended up in the hands of Chris Hurd, curator and professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. In 2022, Hurd announced the discovery of two new minerals within the El Ali meteorite, which he named Elaliite and Elkinstantonite. These minerals have an iron-phosphorus-oxygen composition and were previously only produced synthetically in a French laboratory. Their discovery in nature marked a significant milestone in our understanding of meteorite minerals.
Other notable minerals found in meteorites include Allabogdanite, a rare phosphide mineral, Cosmochlor, a sodium and chromium silicate, Chaoite, a carbon mineral with large quantities of chlorine and silicon, Trevorite, an exceptionally rare oxide and hydroxide class mineral, and Georgiaite, a unique form of tektite found only in Georgia. Each of these minerals contributes to our knowledge of the diversity and complexity of materials in space.
The discovery of new minerals in meteorites is not just an academic pursuit. These minerals have far-reaching implications for humanity. They have helped scientists determine the age of the Universe, understand the formation and evolution of asteroids and planets, and even explore the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Additionally, these minerals have practical applications in technology and resource acquisition. As we venture into the era of asteroid mining, the knowledge gained from studying meteorite minerals will be instrumental in replenishing Earth’s resources.
The study of meteorite minerals is an ongoing endeavor that continues to unlock the secrets of the Universe. With each new discovery, our understanding expands, paving the way for further exploration and advancements. As we gaze up at the stars, we can marvel at the wonders they hold and be grateful for the gifts they send us in the form of meteorites. These space stones are not just rocks; they are windows into the cosmos and gateways to our own evolution.
References:
– “U of A scientists help identify two new minerals found in ‘curious’ meteorite” – Edmonton Journal
– “Meteorite Minerals” – ResearchGate
– “Mineralogy of meteorite groups. Alan E. RUBIN” – Wiley Online Library
– “FAQ – meteorite facts” – ASU Center for Meteorite Studies
