The binary fission origin of the moonThe major arguments for and against the binary fission model of lunar origin are reviewed. Unresolved problems include: (1) how the protoearth acquired sufficient angular velocity to fission, and (2) how the earth-moon system lost its excess angular momentum after fission. Despite these uncertainties, the compositional similarities between the earth's mantle and the bulk moon suggest that the fission model is worth considering. The proposed sequence of events in the formation of the moon by binary fission is given.
Document ID
19870033366
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Binder, Alan B. (NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)