What exterior feature, formed during atmospheric heating, aids in initial field identification of a recovered meteorite?
Answer
Fusion crust
A key initial indicator used to distinguish a genuine meteorite from an ordinary terrestrial stone is the presence of a fusion crust. This feature manifests as a thin, dark rind that develops on the exterior surface of the space rock during its rapid transit through the atmosphere. The intense heating caused by atmospheric entry vaporizes and melts the outermost layer of the object, which then solidifies quickly upon deceleration, forming this characteristic crust. While laboratory analysis is required for definitive confirmation, observing a fusion crust, along with potential magnetic attraction due to iron content, prompts closer expert inspection.
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