Chondrites are a class of meteorites that contain chondrules, small spherical grains thought to be the precursors of planets and other astronomical bodies. Chondrites are named for their chondrules, which are round, glassy spheres formed from the condensation of dust in the early Solar System. Chondrules are found in all classes of meteorites, but they are most abundant in chondrites.
There are three main types of chondrites: carbonaceous, ordinary, and enstatite. Carbonaceous chondrites make up about 5% of known meteorites and contain high levels of organic compounds and water. They are further subdivided into subtypes based on their composition and origin. Ordinary chondrites make up about 75% of known meteorites and have a lower percentage of volatile elements than carbonaceous chondrites. Enstatite chondrites make up the remaining 20% of known meteorites and have a higher percentage of silica than either type of chondrite.
Chonrdites Meteorites containing small round grains called “chandules”.