Unusual rocks containing distinctive greenish crystals found in the Erg Chech sand sea have been identified as fragments of the meteorite Erg Chech 002. This meteorite is a remarkable discovery, as it is the oldest volcanic rock ever found and classified as an “ungrouped achondrite,” meaning its parent body and family relations remain unknown. Achondrites like Erg Chech 002 originated from melted planetesimals in the early Solar System. The meteorite contains high levels of lead-206, lead-207, undecayed uranium-238, and uranium-235. This finding provides insights into the early Solar System’s composition and the distribution of elements.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Achondrite: Achondrites are a type of meteorite that originated from melted planetesimals in the early Solar System. They lack chondrules, small spherical grains found in other meteorite types.
- Lead-206 and Lead-207: These are isotopes of the element lead. They are used in radiometric dating to determine the age of rocks and meteorites.
- Uranium-238 and Uranium-235: These are radioactive isotopes of uranium. Their presence in meteorites can help scientists understand the early Solar System’s conditions and the processes that led to element formation.
- Aluminium-26: Aluminium-26 is a radioactive isotope of aluminum. Its uneven distribution in the cloud of dust and gas that formed the Solar System provides insights into the dynamics of early solar system formation.
- Erg Chech: Erg Chech is a sandy region in the Sahara Desert, spanning western Algeria and northern Mali. It is characterized by shifting sand dunes and is known for its unique geological features, such as the Erg Chech 002 meteorite.
