Rautanikkeliseokset

Rautanikkeliseokset, also known as iron-nickel meteorites, are a type of meteorite that are composed primarily of iron and nickel. These meteorites are believed to originate from the cores of differentiated asteroids, which are asteroids that have undergone internal melting and differentiation, similar to the Earth's core and mantle. Rautanikkeliseokset are among the oldest known meteorites, with ages estimated to be around 4.5 billion years, dating back to the early solar system.

These meteorites are characterized by their high iron and nickel content, typically ranging from 85% to 95% iron and 5% to 15% nickel. They also contain smaller amounts of other elements such as cobalt, phosphorus, and sulfur. Rautanikkeliseokset are further classified into two main types: octahedrites and ataxites. Octahedrites are the most common type, with a distinctive Widmanstätten pattern visible on their cut surfaces, while ataxites lack this pattern and have a more uniform structure.

Rautanikkeliseokset are of significant scientific interest due to their composition and origin. They provide valuable insights into the early solar system and the processes that led to the formation of planetary cores. Additionally, their high iron and nickel content makes them valuable for industrial purposes, such as in the production of stainless steel and other alloys. Despite their scientific and industrial importance, rautanikkeliseokset are relatively rare, with only a few hundred known specimens found on Earth.