Modern Astronomy

Front

What is the soil-like layer on the moon’s surface called?

Back

Regolith: A layer of loose, fragmented material covering solid bedrock, found on the Moon's surface.

Front

Which satellite of Jupiter is volcanically active?

Back

Io: The most geologically active body in the solar system, known for its numerous volcanoes.

Front

What is the most widely accepted model for the origin of the moon?

Back

The Giant Impact Hypothesis: A large body collided with Earth, ejecting debris that formed the Moon.

Front

How did Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 achieve lasting fame?

Back

It crashed into Jupiter in 1994, providing valuable data about the planet's atmosphere.

Front

What is the spinning of Earth on its axis called?

Back

Rotation: The movement of Earth around its own axis, taking approximately 24 hours to complete.

Front

What are the dark, basaltic plains on the Moon called?

Back

Maria: Large, dark, basaltic plains formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the term for the path an object takes as it revolves around another object in space?

Back

Orbit: The curved path of an object around a star, planet, or moon.

Front

What is the name of the force that keeps planets in orbit around the Sun?

Back

Gravity: The force of attraction between two masses, which governs the motion of celestial bodies.

Front

What is the phenomenon called when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun?

Back

Solar Eclipse: An event where the Moon blocks the Sun's light, casting a shadow on Earth.

Front

What is the term for the time it takes for the Earth to complete one full orbit around the Sun?

Back

Revolution: The movement of Earth around the Sun, taking about 365.25 days.