Presolar SiC in chondrites - How variable and how many sources?

Abstract

The carbon and silicon isotropic compositions of 246 isotopically anomalous SiC grains measured in low concentration residues are reported. The residues were prepared from nine chondrites, namely, 6 unequilibrated ordinary chondrites (UOCs), Qingzhen (EH3), Leoville (CV3), and Murchison (CM2). Murchison is used as a standard to which all the other meteorites studied are compared. The range of isotopic compositions exhibited by UOC SiC is found to be similar to Murchison, except in Inman. Inman SiC has a distinctly different distribution of its silicon isotopic composition compared to the other meteorites. Residues from Qingzhen and Leoville produce only one anomalous SiC grain each.