Moon’s interior

Definition

The Moon's interior consists of three primary layers: the crust, mantle, and core. These layers differ in composition and physical properties, contributing to the Moon's geological characteristics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Moon has a relatively thin crust compared to Earth, averaging about 50 kilometers thick.
2. The mantle extends from the bottom of the crust to about 1,000 kilometers depth and is composed mainly of silicate minerals.
3. The core is thought to be partly molten and primarily composed of iron, nickel, and sulfur.
4. Seismic data from moonquakes have provided insights into the structure and composition of the Moon’s interior.
5. There are no large-scale tectonic activities or plate movements in the Moon's interior as there are on Earth.

Review Questions

• What are the three primary layers of the Moon's interior?
• How does the thickness of the Moon's crust compare to Earth's?
• What elements are predominantly found in the Moon's core?

Related terms

Crust: The outermost layer of a planetary body, consisting mainly of silicate minerals in both Earth and the Moon.

Mantle: The layer between a planet's crust and core made up mostly of silicate rocks that are rich in magnesium and iron.

Core: The innermost part of a planet or moon, typically composed of metal elements like iron and nickel.