Bulk components in lunar rocks

Abstract

The deviations of principal lunar rock oxides collected from periodicals are presented in the form of frequency distribution graphs. The geochemical characteristics of rock types from different landing sites are briefly discussed. Of the major lunar rock components AI2O3, FeO, CaO and MnO are most indicative of terra-mare contrary. Terra rock classification is not unambiguous but mare basalts can be divided into highand low-titanium basalts with several subgroups. Since lunar missions are few in number and are directed at restricted areas there are evidently still many unsampled lunar rock types.