Surface Features of Metallic Spherules

• DOI: 10.1126/science.142.3592.581
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T09:05:35Z
• Authors: R. A. Schmidt; K. V. Venkataraman; M. L. Jackson; G. P. Woollard
• Keywords: Abrasion (mechanical)

Metallic spherules of variable character have been recovered from Antarctic snow. Three types were recognized their surface features: type I, smooth, polished spherules, apparently produced by melting the particles upon entry into earth's atmosphere; II, with a corrugated caused differential hardness internal, intersecting lamellae, but modified superimposed pits; and III, random, circular depressions or pits resulting impact submicroscopic particles. Spherules II III too small to suffered abrasion impacts in atmosphere, it is postulated that surfaces may erosion space. Preservation these details would possible if atmosphere took place at low velocities low-angle trajectories.