Samples are usually about 200 microns across, and about 50 microns thick. Ruby chips or C13 diamond chips are placed next to the sample for pressure calibration. Pressures in excess of 100 GPa are possible. The image quality in this picture is poor, but the major features are labelled. View of a sample of olivine that actually resembles what we usually see.
Units page defining our units of measurement.
This page last updated in February 2001 by Mike Harrell . Please contact him with suggestions or questions about this site. Designed and written by Marilee Glenn.