6
QuizMultiple Choice

N/A — Exam

Question 6 • Earth and Space Science

Which statement best explains why temperatures on the lunar surface change more dramatically than those below the surface?

Answer
A
The surface contains more radioactive elements than deeper layers.
B
Surface rocks conduct heat more efficiently than regolith.
C
Subterranean regolith absorbs more sunlight during the day than the surface.
D
The Sun's rays only reach the surface, and there's no atmosphere to trap heat.

Explanation

The Moon has almost no atmosphere to spread or retain heat, so its exposed surface heats up in sunlight and cools rapidly in darkness. Beneath the surface, regolith acts as insulation and slows those temperature changes. Therefore, D, “The Sun's rays only reach the surface, and there's no atmosphere to trap heat,” best explains the greater temperature swings at the surface.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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