To determine the relative ages of the Moon's maria and highlands, scientists analyze the density and distribution of impact craters on their surfaces. The highlands, which are heavily cratered, are older than the maria, which have fewer craters due to younger volcanic activity that filled in the basins. Radiometric dating of lunar samples can also provide age estimates, but crater counting is a primary method for establishing relative ages. By comparing these features, researchers can infer the geological history of the Moon.
Copyright © 2026 eLLeNow.com All Rights Reserved.