French planetary scientists from the University of the Côte d'Azur and the Institute of Celestial Mechanics and Computation
The analysis showed that in the center of the Moon there isa solid inner core surrounded by a liquid outer core. This structure resembles the internal structure of the Earth, but the solid core of the satellite consists of metal with a density close to iron. According to researchers, its radius is 258 ± 40 km, which is about 15% of the satellite’s radius.
Various research methods related toin particular, with the rotation of the moon, have already made it possible to clearly identify the liquid outer core, the researchers note. However, the hard core remained elusive due to its small size. But the complex data collected by various space missions leaves no doubt that it exists.
In addition, the researchers concluded thatthe observational results confirm the “gravitational reversal” hypothesis. Apparently, during the evolution of the Moon, movement of material was observed within the mantle, the intermediate layer between the core and the crust. This process helps explain the presence of iron-rich elements on the lunar surface.
The researchers believe that the material from the mantlecould rise to the surface, forming volcanic rocks deposited in the lunar crust. Subsequently, materials that were too dense compared to the surrounding rocks of the earth's crust sank back to the core-mantle boundary.
An analysis of the internal structure of the moon helps to understand the history of the solar system and some events, such as the disappearance of the lunar magnetic field.
Read more:
Scientists first saw how a star devours the planet: this, in the end, is waiting for the Earth
Two super-Earths found on the edge of the habitable zone: one of them has a comfortable temperature
Modern humans migrated to Europe differently than previously thought
On the cover: an artistic illustration of the internal composition of the moon, determined from various observations. Image: Geoazur/Nicolas Sarter