Getting a handle on meteorites can be difficult. One way to get a start on this complex and interesting subject is to familiarize yourself with a set of basic facts. Then expand from there.

Below you will find a few basics.

Types of Meteorites

• Chondrites (Stony)
• Achondrites (Stony)
• Irons
• Stony Irons

Distribution of Meteorite Falls

• Stony - Chondrites (82%)
• Stony - Achondrites(7.8%)
• Irons (4.8%)
• Stony Irons (1.2%)

Basic Definitions

• Stony - Chondrites (characterized by chondrules--small mineral spheres ~1mm in size that have come together with other (dirt like) mineral matter to form a solid rock. Believed to be among the oldest rocks in the solar system.)
• Stony - Achondrites (which means they do not contain chondrules)
• Irons (crystalline iron-nickel alloy -- believed to resemble the Earth's outer core)
• Stony Irons (mixture of iron-nickel metal alloy and non-metallic mineral matter. Believed to be similar to material that would be found where the Earth's core meets the mantle.)