[meteorite-list] searching for the correct terminology

[Chris Peterson]

Spallation might be a specific way that the fusion crust could be removed 
(such as by tumbling in a stream), but it isn't very general. I'd use the 
same term that geologists use for any sort of surface modified by natural 
forces: weathering. If there's something unusual about the mechanism, you 
can always add more detail, such as "the fusion crust has been selectively 
chipped from its substrate by weathering processes".

For a meteorite that no longer has a fusion crust, I think the clearest 
description would be "shows no remaining fusion crust".

Chris

*****************************************
Chris L Peterson
Cloudbait Observatory
http://www.cloudbait.com


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Michael Murray" <mmurray at montrose.net>
To: <Meteorite-list at meteoritecentral.com>
Sent: Friday, September 11, 2009 11:04 AM
Subject: [meteorite-list] searching for the correct terminology


> You will probably think I am a bit off the latch with this question  but 
> here goes anyway... In the world of meteorite terminology, is  there a 
> term or word which describes the loss of fusion crust (by  forces of 
> nature) from stony meteorites.  'Spalling' possibly?  The  loss of crust, 
> part or all, seems to be a rather common occurrence  especially for some 
> of the more friable stonys.  With the crust gone,  the stone is 'denuded'?
>
> Mike in CO