Establish a quantitative redistribution mechanism for chondrule–matrix complementarity

Derive a quantitative physical mechanism capable of redistributing forsterite or other Mg-rich silicates at the required scale to produce the complementary Mg/Si compositions of chondrules and matrix during chondrule formation.

Background

Chondrule–matrix complementarity is characterized by super-chondritic Mg/Si ratios in chondrules and sub-chondritic Mg/Si ratios in matrix. Earlier models attributed this relationship to evaporation of Mg-rich silicates from matrix precursors followed by incorporation into chondrules.

Although this mechanism can qualitatively account for the observed compositions, the paper notes that a quantitative physical process capable of producing the redistribution at the required scale has not yet been established. The paper proposes a hybrid interpretation involving CI-like dust and complementary condensate-like material, but the quantitative redistribution problem remains unresolved.