Microchondrules in ordinary chondrites: Implications for chondrule formation

The occurrence of numerous microchondrules in several matrix-rich clasts and chondrule rims as described in this article has important implications for the origin of chondrules. It implies that fine-grained materials existed in the immediate vicinity of the microchondrules when they formed and that the chondrule-formation mechanism must have been highly localized. Microchondrules on OC have been reported in two principal settings: (1) as rare individuals in the fine-grained matrices of many type-3 chondrites and in the clastic matrix of the Dimmitt H regolith breccia; and (2) as the predominant or exclusive chondrule size in a few unequilibrated clasts in LL3.4 Piancaldoli, the Rio Negro L regolith breccia, L3.7 Mezo-Madaras, and LL3.1 Krymka.