* Astronomy

Title: Magnetic properties of the Olivenza meteorite - Possible implications for its evolution and an early Solar System magnetic field
Authors: Collinson, D. W.

The magnetic properties of samples of the Olivenza chondrite (LL5) obtained from four collections have been investigated. The natural remnant magnetisation (NRM) consists of a very stable primary component, which is randomly scattered in direction on a scale of about 1 cu mm or less within the samples, and a secondary magnetisation widely varying in intensity, and probably also in direction. The origin of the secondary NRM is not clear, and may be of terrestrial origin. It is concluded that the NRM is carried by the ordered nickel-iron mineral, tetrataenite. The origin of the primary NRM could be a magnetic field associated with the solar nebula, out of which the metal grains condensed and acquired a thermoremanent magnetisation (TRM), or Olivenza could be a fine-grained breccia, the constituent fragments possessing randomly directed magnetisation. The implications for the origin and evolution of Olivenza and its parent body if the former magnetising process has occurred are discussed.

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