The Moon Crater Controversy

Investigation 5, Part 1

Does the Moon always look the same in the sky? Why?

Can we see the Moon at the same time every day? Why?No. The Moon has phases, based on how much

of the Moon we can see reflecting the sun.No. The Moon rises and sets at different times

of the day based on where the Moon is in its cycle.

Warm up:

One thing many of you wanted to know was how did the craters get on the Moon?

Moon Questions

In the 1960’s two theories were developed.Dr. Jack Green believed they were volcanic.Dr. Eugene Shoemaker believed they were the

result of meteoroids hitting the Moon. We will now read about these two theories and

review evidence. Pgs. 59-62.We will also be looking at pictures on the computer. Take notes of the key points of each scientist.

(Make a T chart.)Be prepared to take a side and cite evidence.

Two Theories

We can’t make a volcano, but we can simulate the lunar surface and impacts.

We will have the Moon’s surface in the basin. The flour is the regolith. (Lunar soil)

Deposit a THIN layer of coco on the surface. This is the mare on the Moon.

The marble is the meteoroid. The crash between the meteoroid and the surface is called an impact.

How Can We Get More Info?

Get a basin with 1.5 liters of flour. They are already filled for you.

Smooth the surface with a ruler. DO NOT pack the flour down. Take care not to make the flour fly up in the air.

Sprinkle a THIN layer of coco. Place basin on newspaper on the floor.Drop meteorites on surface and observe. WE ARE NOT THROWING THE MARBLES! After several drops, smooth the surface and start again. Record your observations in your journal and we will

discuss.

Procedure: