Physics Department, University of Hull, Yorkshire, England
Abstract:
The Moon is represented as an inhomogeneous spherical body in a steady thermal state. Radioactive heat sources are supposed distributed in a manner which is consistent both with the total measured heat flux near the surface and with the broad seismic evidence. Surface concentrations of uranium and thorium are those suggested by the study of Apollo 11 samples. The resultant internal temperature profile allows the details of Sonett's electrical conductivity profile to be understood if it is accepted that the Moon was not cold 4.5 × 109 yr ago. It would appear further that at least one of the maria was formed by the impact of planetesimals.