What is the term for the cup-shaped depression found on the surface of Earth or other celestial bodies?

The term "impact crater" refers to a cup-shaped depression formed when a celestial body, such as a meteorite, comet, or asteroid, collides with a planet or moon. This impact displaces material from the surface, resulting in a bowl-like feature that can vary widely in size and depth.

Impact craters are significant in planetary science as they provide information about the history of the celestial body, including its geological activity and surface conditions. The characteristics of an impact crater, such as its shape, size, and surrounding ejecta, can also offer insights into the energy and speed of the impacting object.

Other terms listed, like 'gibbous,' relate to phases of celestial bodies and do not describe structural features on surfaces, while 'maria' refers to large, dark basaltic plains on the Moon formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. 'Regolith' denotes a layer of loose material covering solid bedrock, which can be found in various forms on planets and moons. These terms do not accurately describe the specific feature of a depression created by an impact, making "impact crater" the correct choice.