Which hypothesis concerning the formation of the Moon makes predictions that best fit the observed lunar data?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The large impact hypothesis proposes that the Moon was formed from debris ejected by a giant impact between the Earth and a Mars-sized object. This hypothesis accurately predicts the Moon's size, composition, and lack of volatile elements compared to the Earth. It also explains the Moon's synchronous rotation and the similarity between the isotopic composition of the Earth and Moon. The large impact hypothesis suggests that a Mars-sized object collided with Earth early in its history, and the debris from this impact eventually formed the Moon. This hypothesis makes predictions that match the observed lunar data, such as the Moon's size, composition, and orbit. The other hypotheses, such as the fission hypothesis or the capture hypothesis, do not provide as comprehensive of an explanation for the observed lunar data.

Which Hypothesis Concerning the Formation of the Moon Makes Predictions