Cosmochemistry

Harry McSween, Jr, Gary Huss

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Year: 2022
• Print ISBN:
  9781108839839
• eBook ISBN:
  9781108881128
• Edition: 2
• Topic: Physical Sciences
• Subtopic: Geology & Earth Sciences

Cosmochemistry is a rapidly evolving field of planetary science and the second edition of this classic text reflects the exciting discoveries made over the past decade from new spacecraft missions. Topics covered include the synthesis of elements in stars, behaviour of elements and isotopes in the early solar nebula and planetary bodies, and compositions of extra-terrestrial materials. Radioisotope chronology of the early Solar System is also discussed, as well as geochemical exploration of planets by spacecraft, and cosmochemical constraints on the formation of solar systems. Thoroughly updated throughout, this new edition features significantly expanded coverage of chemical fractionation and isotopic analyses; focus boxes covering basic definitions and essential background material on mineralogy, organic chemistry and quantitative topics; and a comprehensive glossary. An appendix of analytical techniques and end-of-chapter review questions, with solutions available at www.cambridge.org/cosmochemistry2e, also contribute to making this the ideal teaching resource for courses on the Solar System's composition as well as a valuable reference for early career researchers.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half-title
• Title page
• Copyright information
• Dedication
• Contents
• Preface
• 1 Introduction to Cosmochemistry
• 2 Nuclides and Elements: The Building Blocks of Matter
• 3 Origin of the Elements
• 4 Solar System and Cosmic Abundances: Elements and Isotopes
• 5 Presolar Grains: A Record of Stellar Nucleosynthesis and Processes in Interstellar Space
• 6 Meteorites, Interplanetary Dust, and Lunar Samples
• 7 Element Fractionations by Cosmochemical and Geochemical Processes
• 8 Stable-Isotope Fractionations by Cosmochemical and Geochemical Processes
• 9 Radioisotopes as Chronometers
• 10 Chronology of the Solar System from Radioactive Isotopes
• 11 The Most Volatile Elements and Compounds: Ices, Noble Gases, and Organic Matter
• 12 Planetesimals: Leftover Planetary Building Blocks
• 13 Chemistry of Planetesimals and Their Samples
• 14 Geochemical Exploration: The Moon and Mars as Case Studies
• 15 Cosmochemical Models for the Formation and Evolution of Solar Systems
• Appendix: Some Analytical Techniques Commonly Used in Cosmochemistry
• Glossary
• Index