Investigation 5 Part 7 Origin of the Moon

Investigation 5, Part 7 Origin of the Moon

Warm up: �Write in your journals several ideas for where you think the Moon came from. �We will share some of these with the class.

Origin Theories �The Sisters Theory � The Earth and Moon formed the same time that the whole Solar System formed over 4. 5 billion years ago. The masses of gas and dust formed two spinning bodies that became the Earth and Moon. �Daughter Theory � Dust and gas formed the Earth. During this process it began to spin very fast. Earth spun so fast that a blob was flung off into Earth’s orbit and formed the Moon.

Origin Theories �Big Impact Theory � Earth collided with a large object, possibly the size of Mars, early in it’s history. The impact ejected a large quantity of matter into space. It began to orbit Earth and over time, these fragmented pieces of matter formed the Moon. �Capture Theory � Early in the formation of the Solar System, a small planetesimal passed by Earth so close that gravity pulled the small, fully formed planet into orbit. The Moon was “captured. ”

Origin Theories � Some have been proven to be more likely true, while others have been proven to be not likely true. � We are going to observe simulations of some of these theories. � Take GOOD notes on each theory as I will have a writing assignment for you when we are done. � http: //www. fossweb. com/delegate/ssi-fossucm/Contribution%20 Folders/FOSS/multimedia_ms_1 E/P lanetary. Science/binders/mo_origin. htm#Origin of the Moon � Chose one theory and write a paragraph with that supports this theory to be true. You need Evidence from the animation.

Reading �When you are done, read the following stories. �How to Get and Hold on to a Moon. Pgs. 69 -70 and Gene Shoemaker: First Man on the Moon? �You will be turning in an assignment on the back counter: � Your paragraph selecting and supporting a theory of Moon origin. You must provide EVIDENCE of why you think this.