Mercury is pockmarked with meteorite craters, while the Earth is not. Why?
A) The Earth is farther from the Sun than Mercury.
B) Tectonic activity and erosion have obliterated the craters on Earth.
C) The Earth's surface was liquid when the great meteorite showers fell.
D) Meteorites did not strike Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tectonic activity and erosion on Earth have gradually removed most of the evidence of impacts. This means that while Earth has been hit by meteorites, its surface is constantly evolving due to geologic activity. On the other hand, Mercury has no erosion or tectonic activity to wear away its craters, so they remain much as they were when they were formed.

Mercury Is Pockmarked with Meteorite Craters, While the Earth Is