What is the Iron Mass in the Main Asteroid Belt?

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    Asteroid Belt Mass
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SUMMARY

The main asteroid belt contains an estimated total mass of 3.0 to 3.6 x 1021 kilograms, with approximately 10% of the asteroids classified as M-type, which are primarily composed of nickel-iron. This percentage refers to the count of asteroids rather than their mass. Other asteroid types, such as S-type (15%) and C-type (75%), also contribute to the overall composition, but the exact mass distribution remains uncertain. The aggregate iron content in the asteroid belt is likely comparable to that of Mars' crust, estimated at around 5%.

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  • Understanding of asteroid classification (M, S, C types)
  • Familiarity with mass estimation techniques in astronomy
  • Knowledge of planetary geology, particularly Mars' crust composition
  • Basic comprehension of spectral characteristics in celestial bodies
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dBrandon/dC
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I'm trying to find how much iron (by mass) is in the main asteroid belt. I'm finding a lot of sites that say 10% of the asteroids are M class, but is that by number or by mass? Does anyone know, and can you provide a reference?
 
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Population demographics of the asteroid belt
1] class M [metallic] 10%
2] class S [stony] 15%
3] class C [carbonaceous] 75%
These are by count and predominant spectral characteristics. The relative mass composition is not well known for obvious reasons. The aggregate iron content is probably about the same as that of Mars crust [estimated around 5%].
 

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