Ytterbium isotopic variations of lunar meteorites by neutron capture reactions induced from cosmic-ray irradiation

Abstract

In this study, as a new attempt for better understanding the neutron energy balance occurred in planetary materials, the use of Yb isotopic variations in fourteen lunar meteorites is discussed. Currently, isotopic work of six of fourteen samples is still in progress. Then, ¹⁶⁸Yb isotopic decrement possibly derived from neutron capture reactions was found in three of the eight samples that have been analyzed. In this presentation, we will discuss the consistency of the isotopic variations of Yb with those caused by neutron capture reactions of other elements like Sm and Er.