Thermal Metamorphism in Chondrites

Thermal metamorphism has affected most chondritic meteorites to some extent, and in most ordinary chondrites, some carbonaceous chondrites, and many enstatite chondrites it has significantly modified the primary characteristics of the meteorites. Metamorphic grade, as described by the petrologic type, is one axis of the current two-dimensional system for classifying chondrites. Many changes are produced during thermal metamorphism, including textural integration and recrystallization, mineral equilibration, destruction of primary minerals, and growth of secondary minerals. Understanding these changes is critical if one hopes to infer the conditions under which chondrites originally formed. In addition to summarizing metamorphic changes, we also discuss temperatures, oxidation states, and possible heat sources for metamorphism.

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