Catena (astrogeology)

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Enki Catena , a chain of craters on Jupiter's moon Ganymede

As Catena ( latin , plural Catenae , "chain" translated) or chain of craters are in the Astrogeologie linear surface structures on planetary celestial bodies referred to, specifically those of a series of small craters exist.

When larger meteorites hit , what are known as secondary craters are often formed , which were created by material ejected during the impact . Often these are arranged linearly and form a chain. Crater chains can also arise from the impact of individual parts of larger bodies torn apart by tidal forces. Since the causes of the formation of linear structures are not always very clear and sometimes the available resolution of a more precise identification at the time of naming set limits, catenae can also be volcanic (for example, remains of collapsed lava tubes ) or tectonic origin.

Web links

Commons : Crater Chains  - Collection of Images