Chondrule-matrix relationships in chondritic meteorites

The relationship between chondrules and matrix (fine grained material with a grain size less than 5 micrometers) in chondritic meteorites has been the subject of considerable controversy and no consensus currently exists. The coexistence of these two components in meteorites with bulk compositions that deviate only slightly from CI abundances suggests that cosmochemically their origins are closely linked. Any consideration of the relationship between chondrules and matrix hinges to a large degree on the origin of matrix. The entire spectrum of models exists from matrix as a nebular product to derivation entirely from chondrules. Early models of solar nebular evolution viewed chondrites as a two-component mixture of high- and low-temperature condensates. However, this model has been challenged by the recognition that the nebula was probably not uniformly vaporized.