Chapter 7, Problem 1QFR

Describe a crater and how it is formed. Why do some craters contain maria?

To determine

The process of crater formation and the reason why some craters contain maria.

Answer to Problem 1QFR

Crater is the numerous circular pits that are in the bright area with a raised rim and the central peak. It is formed by asteroids or meteorites colliding on Moon’s surface. When larger bodies hit the Moon’s surface before its interior solidified, craters with maria are formed.

Explanation of Solution

Craters are the bright areas with large circular pits. It formed when the surface of the Moon is hit by asteroids and meteorites and splashing the surface, as a raindrop falling into water, creating a circular pit with central peak and raised rim. The diameter and the depth of the crater depends on the velocity and the mass of the bodies that struck the Moon’s surface.

When larger bodies struck the surface of the Moon before the interior of the moon undergone complete solidification, a much deeper crater is created and molten lava comes out of the Moon’s interior and fills the surface. Eventually, this area is cooled and this area is called maria.

Conclusion:

Crater is the bright area with numerous circular pits, raised rim and the central peak. It is formed by asteroids or meteorites colliding on Moon’s surface. When larger bodies hits the Moon’s surface forms craters with maria.