Why are lunar regolith particles described as extremely sharp and abrasive?
Answer
Due to the lack of erosion by wind or water on the surface.
The sharp, abrasive quality of the lunar regolith particles stems directly from the absence of atmospheric processes like wind or water erosion on the Moon. Terrestrial dust particles are typically smoothed and rounded over time by these erosive forces. Since lunar regolith particles have only been subjected to fracturing via micrometeorite impacts, their edges remain jagged and extremely sharp. This sharp geometry is what causes mechanical wear on suits and equipment and poses a significant hazard to astronauts and sensitive instruments.
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