Chondrites are a type of stony meteorite that are considered to be some of the most primitive and oldest materials found in our solar system. They are composed of various types of minerals, metals, and organic compounds that have remained relatively unchanged since their formation over 4.5 billion years ago. Scientists study chondrites to gain insights into the early solar system and the processes that led to the formation of planets and other celestial bodies. Chondrites are classified into several groups based on their mineral composition and are thought to have originated from different regions of the solar system.