Definition
In the Berzelius–Goldschmidt classification, siderophile elements alloy with metallic iron (sideros), most notably in planetary cores. Transition elements such as Ni, Co, Mn, Mo, Au, and the Platinum-Group Elements (Os, Pd, Pt, Re, Rh, Ru) are highly siderophilic. Under reducing conditions, carbon, silicon, and phosphorus become moderately siderophilic. Likewise, under high pressure, some lithophile elements tend to fractionate into the core and become siderophilic. The question of which elements behave in this way is hotly debated for K, Pb, and Nb for the implication it has on the evolution of planetary interiors.
See also
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution.
Buying options
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
Learn about institutional subscriptionsAuthor information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
About this entry
Cite this entry
Albarede, F. (2011). Siderophile Elements. In: Gargaud, M., et al. Encyclopedia of Astrobiology. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-11274-4_1445
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-11274-4_1445
Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg
Print ISBN: 978-3-642-11271-3
Online ISBN: 978-3-642-11274-4
eBook Packages: Physics and AstronomyReference Module Physical and Materials ScienceReference Module Chemistry, Materials and Physics