Uranus Moon Theory Debated

FortKnox writes "Y! has an interesting article on, what is said to be the most puzzling moon in the solar system, The Uranus moon Miranda. Due to the extreme differences in the textures of the surface, a theory of how it happened came about. The old theory was that the moon was shattered in the early ages of the solar system, but fell back together. But now the theory is in question. Instead of something smashing the surface breaking it, they believe it may have to do with seismic activity. Quite an interesting read."

Comments

Link for images and ??

[CXI]

Images are here:

http://www.nasm.edu/ceps/etp/uranus/uran_moons.htm l

Now, the thing that puzzles me is that this guys theory isn't any different from the previous theory.

The "explosion" (aka impact by comet or something) theory says that the act of the moon heating up as it reformed caused volcanic like activity, which stopped when the moon finally settled.

The new theory says that some random and undetermined force (maybe tidal forces, maybe something else) caused the moon to heat up and cause volcanic like activity. Um, that's the same thing! All this theory does is say "no, it wasn't an impact that caused this! It was... Something Else!" What else? "Well, we're not sure, but man this is getting me good publicity for my PhD!"

*sigh*