WIDMANSTÄTTEN FIGURES: WORK OF ART FROM THE UNIVERSE

Widmanstätten figures form in metallic meteorites , also called iron meteorites or siderites, which are composed primarily of iron and nickel. These meteorites often originate from the cores of larger celestial bodies, such as asteroids, that have been fractured in cosmic collisions. What makes these figures so remarkable is their distinct crystalline structure, which can only form in the unique conditions of deep space.

The formation of Widmanstätten figures begins when a molten metal core cools slowly in space , over a period of millions of years. This slow cooling allows the crystals to grow, forming banded or lamellae structures. These structures are the result of the intergrowth of two types of iron-nickel minerals, kamacite and taenite, which grow at different rates.

Kamacite is composed mainly of iron and usually contains less than 7% nickel, while taenite is a solid solution of iron and nickel. Due to their different chemical compositions, these minerals crystallize at different temperatures and cooling rates, giving rise to the Widmanstätten figures with their distinct patterns.

Scientists study these figures for several reasons. First, they provide valuable information about the cooling conditions and thermal history of the celestial bodies from which the meteorites originate. By examining Widmanstätten figures in iron meteorites, researchers can estimate the cooling rate and size of the parent core, which helps to better understand the evolution and dynamics of celestial objects in our solar system.

Additionally, studying Widmanstätten figures can also help us understand metallurgical processes on Earth. The slow cooling conditions that are required to form these structures are often difficult to reproduce in the laboratory, but by understanding the mechanisms behind Widmanstätten figures, scientists can improve metal heat treatment techniques on Earth.

Finally, the Widmanstätten figures are simply magnificent to behold . Their intricate and fascinating patterns remind us of the beauty and diversity of the cosmos, as well as our deep connection to the universe. Every time we observe these astonishing structures in meteorites, we witness the incredible forces that shape our world and beyond.