What is one way that astronomers have actually gotten an idea of the age of the surfaces of terrestrial planets other than the Earth?
A) looking at the colors different surfaces show
B) bringing back samples and run radioactive dating tests
C) counting craters
D) measuring the thickness of the atmosphere above each surface
E) looking in the instruction manual that comes with each planet

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Astronomers can use the number of craters on a planet's surface to estimate its age. This is because over time, a planet's surface gets bombarded with small objects, like meteoroids, which leave behind craters. The more craters a surface has, the older it is thought to be. This method has been used to estimate the ages of surfaces on the Moon, Mars, and several of the moons of Jupiter and Saturn.

What Is One Way That Astronomers Have Actually Gotten an Idea