Particle size distribution of spherical particles in Apollo 12 samples

The particle size distribution and incidence of spherical, glassy particles commonly found in lunar samples has been determined from Apollo 12 surface samples of fine dust. Some of the spherical particles are hollow and this aspect has also been investigated. The atomisation process by which these particles were probably formed is described and the known physics of this phenomenon is used to define the conditions under which the particles were formed. Other physical limitations are also discussed in order to explain the measured particle size.