What is the widely accepted theory explaining the formation of the Moon?

The Large-Impact Hypothesis is the widely accepted explanation for the formation of the Moon. This theory suggests that approximately 4.5 billion years ago, a Mars-sized body, often referred to as Theia, collided with the early Earth. The immense energy from this impact caused a significant amount of debris to be ejected into orbit around our planet. Over time, this debris coalesced and formed the Moon.

The strength of this hypothesis lies in its ability to explain several key characteristics of the Earth-Moon system. For example, it accounts for the similar isotopic compositions of Earth and Moon rocks, suggesting that the Moon formed from material that originated from Earth. It also helps to explain the Moon's relatively small iron core compared to Earth, as much of the iron would have been concentrated in the Earth itself after the collision.

While other theories like the Fission, Condensation, and Capture Hypotheses present alternative ideas about Moon formation, they do not adequately account for the evidence gathered from lunar samples and detailed computer simulations of early solar system dynamics. The Large-Impact Hypothesis has garnered strong support from both geological evidence and astrophysical models, making it the most compelling explanation for the Moon's origins in the context of current scientific understanding.