What term describes the thumbprint-like depressions found on meteorites caused by ablation forces during descent?
Answer
Regmaglypts
Regmaglypts are surface features commonly observed on meteorites that result from the process of ablation during atmospheric entry. These depressions are distinctly shaped like thumbprints pressed into a soft material, which provides a good analogy for their appearance. They are formed by the dynamic forces of the air rushing over the object as it decelerates at high speeds through the atmosphere. These markings are distinct from the fusion crust, which is the melted outer layer, as regmaglypts represent sculpting or pitting caused by localized heating and drag forces.
Related Questions
What size object typically transitions from being classified as a meteoroid to an asteroid?What phenomenon is technically called a meteor in the context of atmospheric entry?What material primarily composes iron meteorites, indicating they are remnants of planetesimal cores?Which of the three main compositional groups of meteorites is considered the rarest naturally occurring find on Earth?What specific geometric pattern appears when iron meteorites are cut, polished, and etched with weak acid?Besides fragments chipped off asteroids, what other icy bodies produce debris that forms meteoroids?What inclusion found in chondrites indicates they are the most primitive meteorites formed in the early solar nebula?What term describes the thumbprint-like depressions found on meteorites caused by ablation forces during descent?What is a particularly bright meteor, one that outshines the planet Venus, often classified as?Why are meteorites considered remarkably pristine samples offering insights into the early Solar System?