Can Arpaci

Can Arpaci

Grade: 10

Teacher: Burcu PARMAK YILDIRIM

School: Burçak Eyüboğlu Fen ve Teknoloji Lisesi

Topic: Ariel


Ariel is the 4th largest of Uranus’ moons. It is almost perpendicular to the orbit of Uranus which causes Ariel to have an extraordinary seasonal cycle. The most unique feature of Ariel is the rift valleys shaped in the form of a complex web and the characteristics of the craters on its surface.

ARIEL

The valleys formed on the surface of Ariel are very similar to the canyons found on Mars and the interiors of these valleys are vastly smooth, this specific characteristic is thought to be caused by the presence of a liquid in Ariel many years before. However, it is impossible for this liquid to be water, as Ariel is a satellite with extremely low temperatures. Astronomers speculate that these rift valleys may have been carved by ammonia, methane or carbon monoxide. Although there are similar valleys in Titania, those found in Ariel are much larger and some have craters that are thought to have been formed as a result of ice drifting. Ariel has craters on its surface too. Most of these craters are half-submerged, which leads to Ariel being formed later than the other moons of Uranus. In addition, Ariel is the brightest moon of Uranus and it has neither any atmosphere nor magnetic field. In my opinion, the rift valleys and the craters that have been formed on the surface should get more precise with more research and observation.

To my way of thinking, the priority of research and observation should be given to Ariel rather than Titania and Oberon because it has been in existence for a shorter time than other satellites and to clarify the wonderful craters and rift valleys.

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