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Impact cratering and regolith dynamicsThe most recent models concerning mechanical aspects of lunar regolith dynamics related to impact cratering use probabilistic approaches to account for the randomness of the meteorite environment in both space and time. Accordingly the absolute regolith thickness is strictly a function of total bombardment intensity and absolute regolith growth rate in nonlinear through geologic time. Regoliths of increasing median thickness will have larger and larger proportions of more and more deep seated materials. An especially active zone of reworking on the lunar surface of about 1 mm depth has been established. With increasing depth, the probability of excavation and regolith turnover decreases very rapidly. Thus small scale stratigraphy - observable in lunar core materials - is perfectly compatible with regolith gardening, though it is also demonstrated that any such stratigraphy does not necessarily present a complete record of the regolith's depositional history. At present, the lifetimes of exposed lunar rocks against comminution by impact processes can be modeled; it appears that catastrophic rupture dominates over single particle abrasion.
Document ID
19780042894
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Hoerz, F.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Geology and Geophysics Branch, Houston, Tex., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1977
Publication Information
Publication: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth
Volume: 10
Issue: 1, 19
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
78A26803
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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