A variety of fulgurites from diverse locations have been studied. Morphological features were measured and physical properties documented, and a classification scheme was developed. Three major types are introduced and described: Type I, Type II, and Type III, along with two minor types: Type IV and Melt Droplets. Fulgurites representative of each major taxonomic type were investigated using electron microprobe point analyses and x-ray mapping. A range of compositions were found, including nearly pure glass, detrital zircons with baddeleyite rims, Fe-metal with P-rich rims, and unusual Fe-Si metals. The fulgurite formation process is considered within the planetary context through a discussion of lightning detection and potential for formation on other terrestrial bodies. Finally, suggestions for future investigations are presented and discussed.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:arizona.edu/oai:arizona.openrepository.com:10150/144596 |
| Date | January 2011 |
| Creators | Block, Kristin |
| Contributors | Pasek, Matthew, Swindle, Timothy, Byrne, Shane |
| Publisher | The University of Arizona. |
| Source Sets | University of Arizona |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis, text |
| Rights | Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author. |
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