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Experimental petrology and origin of Fra Mauro rocks and soil.Results of melting experiments over the pressure range from 0 to 20 kb on Apollo 14 igneous rocks 14310 and 14072, and on comprehensive fines 14259. It is found that low-pressure crystallization of rocks 14310 and 14072 proceeds as predicted from the textural relationships displayed by thin sections of these rocks. The mineralogy and textures of these rocks are the result of near-surface crystallization. The chemical compositions of these lunar samples all show special relationships to multiply saturated liquids in the system anorthite-forsterite-fayalite-silica at low pressure. Partial melting of a lunar crust consisting largely of plagioclase, low-calcium pyroxene, and olivine, followed by crystal fractionation at the lunar surface, is a satisfactory mechanism for the production of the igneous rocks and soil glasses sampled by Apollo 14. The KREEP component of other lunar soils, may have a similar origin.
Document ID
19730034926
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Walker, D.
Longhi, J.
Hays, J. F.
(Harvard University Cambridge, Mass., United States)
Date Acquired
August 7, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Meeting Information
Meeting: Lunar Science Conference
Location: Houston, TX
Start Date: January 10, 1972
End Date: January 13, 1972
Accession Number
73A19728
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-22-007-199
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-22-007-175
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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