A-type asteroid facts for kids

A-type asteroids are a special kind of asteroid found in our solar system. They are quite rare compared to other types of asteroids. Scientists study them to learn more about how planets and asteroids formed.

What Makes A-type Asteroids Special?

A-type asteroids have some unique features that help scientists identify them. They show a strong sign of a mineral called olivine. This is seen as a clear "feature" when scientists look at the light reflected from the asteroid. This olivine feature is strongest at about 1 µm (micrometer).

Their Unique Color

These asteroids also have a very reddish color when viewed through a telescope. This means they reflect more red light than blue or green light. This reddish color is especially noticeable at wavelengths shorter than 0.7 µm. These special light patterns help scientists tell them apart from other asteroids.

Where Do A-type Asteroids Come From?

Scientists believe A-type asteroids come from the inside of larger, ancient asteroids. Imagine a big asteroid that was once hot enough to melt. Just like Earth, its heavier materials would sink to the center. Lighter materials would float to the surface. This process is called "differentiation."

From the Mantle

A-type asteroids are thought to be pieces of the "mantle" of such a differentiated asteroid. The mantle is the layer between the core and the crust. Finding these asteroids helps us understand the internal structure of early solar system bodies.

How Rare Are A-type Asteroids?

A-type asteroids are very uncommon. As of 2005, only 17 of these unique asteroids had been discovered. Their rarity makes them even more interesting for scientists to study. Each new discovery helps us learn more about the early solar system.