Major and trace element chemistry of Luna 24 samples from Mare Crisium

Abstract

We have analyzed 6 Luna 24 soils for major and trace elements by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). We have also analyzed size fractions (90-150 μm and <20 μm) of these same soils and 6 fragments (>250 μm) for trace elements by INAA. We have used this data and those of other workers to identify several compositional components in the Luna 24 soils and have tested the reasonableness of these components by using mixing calculations to reconstruct the soils.