chondrite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “chondrite” mean?
A stony meteorite containing small, round mineral granules called chondrules.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A stony meteorite containing small, round mineral granules called chondrules.
A primitive meteorite that has not been significantly altered by melting or differentiation since its formation in the early Solar System, characterized by the presence of chondrules. It is of great scientific interest for studying planetary origins.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
None beyond its strict scientific definition.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to specialist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “chondrite” in a Sentence
[chondrite] + [verb: contains, fell, is classified as][adjective: carbonaceous, ordinary] + [chondrite]analysis of + [chondrite]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chondrite” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The chondritic material was carefully analysed.
- It had a typical chondritic composition.
American English
- The chondritic material was carefully analyzed.
- It exhibited a chondritic structure.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in astronomy, planetary science, and geology research papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Extremely rare; only in discussions about meteorites or space science.
Technical
The primary context of use. Standard term in meteoritics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chondrite”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chondrite”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chondrite”
- Mispronunciation: /ˈtʃɒndraɪt/ (with 'ch' as in 'chair'). Correct is /ˈkɒndraɪt/.
- Misspelling: 'chondright', 'condrite'.
- Using it as a general term for any meteorite.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It comes from the Greek 'chondros' meaning 'grain' or 'granule', referring to the chondrules within it.
Scientifically, they are extremely valuable as records of the early solar system. Some collectors also value them, with rare types commanding high prices.
They are the most common type of meteorite observed to fall to Earth, making up over 85% of recorded falls.
No, chondrules are unique to chondritic meteorites. They are not found in terrestrial rocks or other planetary materials.
A stony meteorite containing small, round mineral granules called chondrules.
Chondrite is usually technical/scientific in register.
Chondrite: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒndraɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːndraɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CHONDRITE is a CHUNK that fell from space with ROUND grains inside it (chondrules).
Conceptual Metaphor
A cosmic time capsule; a pristine record.
Practice
Quiz
What is a chondrite primarily composed of?