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Radioactive heat sources in the lunar interior.Published models for the moon's thermal history typically imply present day central temperatures far too high to be consistent with the recently proposed lunar temperature profile of Sonett et al. (1971). Furthermore, chemical data on Apollo samples show that the moon is depleted relative to chondrites in volatile elements, and possibly enriched relative to chondrites in refractory elements. Additional thermal models have therefore been investigated in order to set upper limits on lunar radioactivity consistent with the proposed temperature distribution. For an initially cold, uniform moon, devoid of potassium, a maximum uranium content of 23 parts per billion is inferred.
Document ID
19720031913
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Hays, J. F.
(Harvard University Cambridge, Mass., United States)
Date Acquired
August 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Publication Information
Publication: Physics of the Earth and Planetary Interiors
Volume: 5
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Accession Number
72A15579
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-22-007-175
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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