Question

Why do astronauts have to wear protective suits when they are on the surface of the moon?

Short answer

Astronauts have to wear protective suits on the moon because these suits protect them against the moon's extreme temperatures, provide a supply of oxygen, shield them from harmful solar radiation, and help them survive in the vacuum of space.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Environment of the Moon

To answer this question, it is first important to understand the environment of the moon. The moon is a place with extreme temperatures, no breathable air and is exposed to solar radiation. It also has no atmospheric pressure.

Identify the protection needed

Given the moon's environment, astronauts need protection against these harsh conditions. They need to have controlled temperatures, a supply of oxygen, protection against radiation and be able to survive under no pressure conditions.

Connect the Conditions with the Suit’s Features

The astronaut protective suit, also known as a space suit, is designed to protect against these conditions. It is insulated to handle extreme temperatures, it has a self-contained oxygen supply for breathing, it is lined with radiation-reflecting materials, and it is built to withstand the vacuum of space.