Neumann line

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Meteorite Neumann lines in a pendant
Meteorite Neumann lines in a pendant

Neumann lines (or bands) are fine patterns of parallel lines seen in cross-sections of many hexahedrite iron meteorites in the kamacite phase, although they may appear also appear in octahedrites provided the kamacite phase is about 30 micrometres wide. They can be seen after a polished meteorite cross-section is treated with acid. The lines are indicative of a shock-induced deformation of the kamacite crystal, and are presumably due to impact events on the parent bodies of the meteorites.

The lines are named after Franz Ernst Neumann, who discovered them in 1848.

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