= Lunar crustal dichotomy
The hemispheric contrast involving thicker, generally higher feldspathic crust on the <far side of the Moon>, compared with generally thinner crust, more extensive <lunar maria> and the concentration of <KREEP>-rich material on the <near side of the Moon>. Crustal mass, topography, chemistry and later volcanic deposits are different observables. A proposed mechanism must explain their relationship rather than identify the contrast solely with visible dark maria.
Back to article page