Abstract
Observations of the distribution of ridge-systems around certain lunar craters are discussed in terms of a simple theory of rock-failure. It is shown that, at the time of formation of these craters, the surface layers of the Moon were stressed in tension. Solutions are found for the propagation index, a property of the lunar rocks; and for the ratio of the horizontal tensile pre-stress in the Moon to that required to fracture the rocks. A measure of the relative force associated with the origin of two craters is obtained. Consideration of several craters suggests that the horizontal tensile stress does not vary greatly from point to point. Of the two principal theories of crater formation, a quiescent process is favoured because it explains certain observations that the explosive theory does not.
Published Version
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