Ion probe analysis of plagioclase in three howardites and three eucrites

Ion microprobe data for plagioclase from a small group of achondrites are presented, and lunar data reported by Steele et al. (1980) are used as a basis for comparison. The elements are discussed in sequence, using observations on lunar plagioclase as a guide. Attention is given to lithium, potassium, strontium, barium, and titanium. The presented data provide encouragement regarding the significance of studies of the trace element content of plagioclase in the achondrites. It is pointed out that the trace-element signature should prove important in classifying and comparing the individual components of the polymict eucrites and howardites. Thus, the simple patterns in Jodzie contrast with the more complex patterns in Frankfort and particularly Brient.