Chapter 9, Problem 4VSC

Use the following questions to check your understanding of some of the many types of visual information used in astronomy. For additional practice, try the Chapter 9 Visual Quiz at Mastering Astronomy.

The image from a MESSENGER flyby shows evidence of impact catering, volcanism, and tectonic activity on Mercury. Answer the following questions based on the image. Remember that craters are bowl-shaped and rough-floored when they form, and wipe out any preexisting features in the area. Lava on Mercury appears to be fairly runny and makes flat smooth plains as it spreads out.

4. Using your answers to questions 1-3, list the following features in order from oldest to youngest:

a. the tectonic ridge from 3a to 3b

b. crater 1a

c. the smooth floor of crater 1b