Printer-friendly version
In this study we examine the petrogenetic history of the Apollo 12 pigeonite basalt suite using thin sections of 12007, 12011, 12017, 12019, 12031, 12039, 12043, 12052, 12053, and 12055. We use a combination of Crystal Size Distributions (CSDs), major element concentrations using electron microprobe, and trace element data via laser ablation inductively coupled mass spectrometry, and crystallization modeling to investigate the history of these samples. We use pyroxene in this study because it remains on the liquidus for a relatively long time, thus recording any changes that may occur during crystallization. CSDs are plotted as the natural log of population density versus crystal length. The slope of the CSD allows for identification of multiple crystal populations, if any. We perform crystallization modeling using crystal core compositions to calculate equilibrium liquids and crystals, then model crystal rims through fractional and equilibrium crystallization.
Send page by email
