Cosmogenic

Relating to the origin or formation of the universe or celestial bodies, especially referring to the creation of isotopes within extraterrestrial materials through the interaction with cosmic rays. cosmogenic processes are crucial for understanding the history of the solar system, the Earth, and other planets. These processes involve the bombardment of matter by high-energy particles, leading to nuclear reactions that create unique isotopes. The study of these isotopes provides valuable insights into the exposure history of meteorites, the evolution of planetary surfaces, and the cosmic ray environment.

Cosmogenic meaning with examples

• Scientists analyzed cosmogenic isotopes in a Martian meteorite to determine how long it had been exposed to cosmic rays in space. The resulting data offered crucial clues on its transit time and ejection from Mars.
• Researchers utilize cosmogenic nuclides found in lunar samples to determine how often the moon's surface has been impacted by meteorites over billions of years, giving clues about the solar system.
• The study of cosmogenic beryllium-10 in polar ice cores is used to reconstruct past variations in solar activity and cosmic ray flux, providing insights into climate change.
• Geologists use cosmogenic dating on rock surfaces to measure the time since they were last exposed to the atmosphere, often used in dating glacial features or landslides.