Carbonaceous chondrites are a type of meteorite that contain a high percentage of carbon and other organic compounds. They are considered some of the oldest materials in the solar system, dating back over 4.5 billion years. These meteorites are rich in minerals and can provide valuable insights into the early formation of planets and the origins of life. These meteorites are classified into different groups based on their chemical composition and mineralogy. Carbonaceous chondrites are particularly important for studying the building blocks of life, as they often contain amino acids and other organic molecules. Their study helps scientists understand the processes that led to the emergence of life on Earth and the potential for life elsewhere in the universe.