Solar Dust
The large interstellar dust particles come in different sizes and ranges from 5 micron to a millimeter with most particles ranging from 50 to 500 microns and masses of 10 -6 to 10 -3 grams. The average particle is about 200 microns in diameter.
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Solar dust consists of fine-grained mixtures of mineral grains and amorphous components. The majority of dust falls into the chondritic class with various level of the abundant elements (Mg, Al, Si, S, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, and Ni). The dust particles are called chondritic and comprise over 75% of the total particles. The carbon content ranges from 5 to 25%. In addition, carbon is found in the form of chunks, but not in the particle's coating. Calcium is depleted. Volatile trace elements are enriched by factors of 2 to 5, except for sulfur and bromine. The organic material is different from that found in meteorites. Compliments of |
Interstellar dust particles interacts with the plasma surrounding the planets. The dust grains are charged to thousands of volts by the competing effects of electron, positron, & ion capture from the plasma. The secondary electron emission from the impacts produce the light as the dust particles enter the atmosphere.