Physics
Scientific paper
Jan 2002
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2002mbns.conf...50r&link_type=abstract
The Moon Beyond 2002: Next Steps in Lunar Science and Exploration, p. 50
Physics
Lunar Mantle, Lunar Core, Lunar Composition, Impactors, Dynamic Models, Geochemistry, Tungsten, Cobalt
Scientific paper
The issue of whether the Moon has a small metallic core is re-examined in light of new information: improved dynamical modelling, new geophysical constraints on core size, and high temperature and pressure metal-silicate partition coefficients. Although the Moon has similar Co and W depletions to the Earth, it has distinctly different Ni, Mo, Re, P and Ga depletions, consistent with the presence of a small metallic core. Because impact modelling predicts the Moon is made of mantle material primarily from the impactor, bulk Moon compositions are considered from 'hot', 'warm' and 'cool' impactors and proto- Earths (deep, intermediate, and shallow melting, respectively). If the Moon is made of mantle material from either a 'hot' impactor or a 'warm' impactor or proto-Earth, a small metallic core (0.7 to 2 percent) is predicted. If the Moon is made from mantle material from a 'hot' proto-Earth, the lunar mantle would be more depleted in W or P than is observed. Some have argued recently that the Moon has no metallic core; scenarios in which the Moon is made from impactor mantle material and has no core predict larger depletions of Ga, Co and W than are observed. Consistency of siderophile element concentrations in the lunar mantle with an impactor bulk Moon composition eliminate previous geochemical objections to an impactor origin of the Moon. Depletions of slightly (Mn, V and Cr) and highly (Re, Au, PGE's) siderophile elements in the lunar mantle will also be considered.
No associations
LandOfFree
Did the Moon Come from the Impactor? Siderophile Element Constraints does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Did the Moon Come from the Impactor? Siderophile Element Constraints, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Did the Moon Come from the Impactor? Siderophile Element Constraints will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1835248