Question

Why are meteorites of primitive material considered more important than other meteorites? (Select all that apply.)

Answer 1

Meteorites of primitive material are important because they provide insights into the early history of the solar system and help define its age. They are more pristine and less altered than other meteorites. Most of them have been found in Antarctica due to the favorable preservation conditions and ease of spotting against the ice.

Step-by-step explanation:

Meteorites of primitive material are considered more important than other meteorites for several reasons:

1. Primitive meteorites provide valuable information about the early history of our solar system. They contain materials that have not been subjected to great heat or pressure since their formation, making them more pristine and reflective of the conditions when the solar system was forming.
2. Primitive meteorites are useful for defining the age of the solar system. By studying their composition, scientists can determine the isotopic ages of certain minerals, providing insights into the timing and processes of planetary formation.
3. Most of the primitive meteorites have been found in Antarctica because the cold and dry conditions in Antarctica help preserve meteorites by slowing down weathering processes. Additionally, the vast expanses of ice make it easier to spot dark meteorites against the white background, increasing the chances of finding them.