Crash Forms a Moon

In the picture

1. 1The small orange space rock striking the planet
2. 2The bright splash of melted rock at the impact point
3. 3A glowing rock fragment arcing away into orbit
4. 4A rounded clump of rocky pieces gathering beside the planet

Examples

• A hammer hitting wet mud can send mud droplets flying.
• Two clay balls pressed together can merge into one larger ball.

Quiz: Crash Forms a Moon (Age 10)

1. 1

   What can happen when a giant space rock hits a young planet?

   • The space rock bounces off and becomes a moon by itself.
   • Melted rock is thrown into space.
   • The impact only leaves a deep crater on the planet.
2. 2

   After melted rock is thrown into orbit, what does it do?

   • It spreads out into a ring that never clumps together.
   • It falls back and becomes part of the planet.
   • It comes together to form a moon.
3. 3

   What is the main idea of how a crash can form a moon?

   • A big impact throws melted rock into orbit, and the rock gathers into a moon.
   • A big impact pulls a moon away from a different planet.
   • A big impact makes a moon appear from inside the planet fully formed.

The answers, each with its explanation, are in the app. This lesson has left the free week, so its quiz is part of the subscription.