[meteorite-list] searching for the correct terminology

From: Chris Peterson <clp_at_meteoritecentral.com>
Date: Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:21:50 -0600
Message-ID: <669C926BCB9045EB93F40107A42345B2_at_bellatrix>

Spallation might be a specific way that the fusion crust could be removed
(such as by tumbling in a stream), but it isn't very general. I'd use the
same term that geologists use for any sort of surface modified by natural
forces: weathering. If there's something unusual about the mechanism, you
can always add more detail, such as "the fusion crust has been selectively
chipped from its substrate by weathering processes".

For a meteorite that no longer has a fusion crust, I think the clearest
description would be "shows no remaining fusion crust".

Chris

*****************************************
Chris L Peterson
Cloudbait Observatory
http://www.cloudbait.com


----- Original Message -----
From: "Michael Murray" <mmurray at montrose.net>
To: <Meteorite-list at meteoritecentral.com>
Sent: Friday, September 11, 2009 11:04 AM
Subject: [meteorite-list] searching for the correct terminology


> You will probably think I am a bit off the latch with this question but
> here goes anyway... In the world of meteorite terminology, is there a
> term or word which describes the loss of fusion crust (by forces of
> nature) from stony meteorites. 'Spalling' possibly? The loss of crust,
> part or all, seems to be a rather common occurrence especially for some
> of the more friable stonys. With the crust gone, the stone is 'denuded'?
>
> Mike in CO
Received on Fri 11 Sep 2009 01:21:50 PM PDT