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Moon’s properties

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Intro to Astronomy

Definition

The Moon's properties include its physical and orbital characteristics. These properties encompass aspects such as size, composition, surface features, and its interaction with Earth and the Sun.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Moon has a diameter of about 3,474 kilometers, roughly one-quarter that of Earth.
  2. It has a heavily cratered surface due to impacts from meteoroids over billions of years.
  3. The Moon is composed mainly of silicate rocks and has a small iron-rich core.
  4. Its synchronous rotation results in the same side always facing Earth, known as the near side.
  5. The Moon's lack of atmosphere leads to extreme temperature variations between day and night.

Review Questions

  • What is the approximate diameter of the Moon compared to Earth?
  • Why does the Moon have so many craters on its surface?
  • What causes the same side of the Moon to always face Earth?

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