Difference between revisions of "KREEP"
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| − | KREEP is an acronym used in geochemistry to represent a mixture of K-[[potassium]], REE-[[rare earth elements]], and P-[[phosphorus]]. Many scientists | + | KREEP is an acronym used in geochemistry to represent a mixture of K-[[potassium]], REE-[[rare earth elements]], and P-[[phosphorus]]. Many scientists consider this component of lunar rocks to be the remnant of a magma ocean which is widely accepted to have covered the surface of the moon approximately 4.5 billion years ago after the moon formed from debris cast out in a cataclysmic collision between earth and another celestial body. |
KREEP is a composite of what scientists term "incompatible elements": elements which cannot fit into the crystal structures formed by cooling magma and are left floating on the surface. It is considered a convenient tracer for researchers seeking to chronicle the volcanic history of the lunar surface, as well as impacts of celestial bodies. | KREEP is a composite of what scientists term "incompatible elements": elements which cannot fit into the crystal structures formed by cooling magma and are left floating on the surface. It is considered a convenient tracer for researchers seeking to chronicle the volcanic history of the lunar surface, as well as impacts of celestial bodies. | ||
Revision as of 10:10, 14 February 2007
KREEP is an acronym used in geochemistry to represent a mixture of K-potassium, REE-rare earth elements, and P-phosphorus. Many scientists consider this component of lunar rocks to be the remnant of a magma ocean which is widely accepted to have covered the surface of the moon approximately 4.5 billion years ago after the moon formed from debris cast out in a cataclysmic collision between earth and another celestial body.
KREEP is a composite of what scientists term "incompatible elements": elements which cannot fit into the crystal structures formed by cooling magma and are left floating on the surface. It is considered a convenient tracer for researchers seeking to chronicle the volcanic history of the lunar surface, as well as impacts of celestial bodies.
