Meteorite strewnfield facts for kids

Example of meteorite strewnfield: distribution ellipse of Pultusk meteorite

A meteorite strewnfield is the area where meteorites and glassy tektites from a single meteor fall are found.

Formation

There are two ways for strewnfields to form:

1. Mid-air fragmentation. When a large meteor enters the atmosphere it often fragments into many pieces. This showers the material over a large oval-shaped area. The shape of this oval is caused by the flight path of the meteor. When multiple-explosions occur, the material may be found in several overlapping ovals.
2. Impact fragmentation: the fragmentation can occur on impact. In this case the strewnfield shape may be different, usually circular.

Example

• The Australasian strewnfield is the youngest and largest of the tektite strewnfields. Recent estimates suggest it may cover 10%-30% of the Earth's surface.