| Description |
In the field of astrophysics, there currently exists an outstanding gap of knowledge in understanding planet formation dynamics. At the formation scale ranging from millimeters to meters, astrophysicists debate as to how solar nebulae form larger masses-planets and other kilometer-sized bodies-from millimeter-sized particles. A solid, undisputed formation theory for this key phase in planetary growth does not exist. In an effort to deepen our knowledge of these dynamic systems, particularly in understanding how the Solar System was formed, we are employing specific imaging and spectroscopic techniques, using pieces of carbonaceous chondrites as our model. These techniques, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy allow us to both image these samples at the micron and sub-micron level and glean valuable elemental, molecular, and mechanical properties of key formation sites within each chondrite. The combined use of these techniques to study meteorites is unique and provides a promising application of non-invasive yet informative-rich methods to both sensitive and more robust samples of interest. |
