Which hypothesis concerning the formation of the Moon makes predictions that best fit the observed lunar data?
A)the large impact hypothesis
B)the fission hypothesis
C)the capture hypothesis
D)the condensation hypothesis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The large impact hypothesis asserts that a Mars-sized body collided with the Earth and ejected material that would eventually form the Moon. This hypothesis predicts that the Moon would be composed primarily of material from the impactor and not from the Earth, which is what is observed in the isotopic ratios of various elements in Moon rocks. Additionally, this hypothesis predicts a similar angular momentum for the Earth-Moon system, which is also observed.

Which Hypothesis Concerning the Formation of the Moon Makes Predictions