Mercury and Venus

Front

What is the atmosphere of Mercury like?

Back

Mercury has no atmosphere.

Front

Why is Venus hotter than Mercury despite being farther from the Sun?

Back

Venus' atmosphere is so thick that it traps the Sun's heat.

Front

How long does it take Mercury to orbit the Sun?

Back

Mercury orbits the Sun every 88 days.

Front

Was MESSENGER the first space probe sent to Mercury?

Back

False, MESSENGER was not the first space probe sent to Mercury.

Front

Why can't astronomers directly study the surface of Venus?

Back

The surface is permanently obscured by thick clouds.

Front

What is the primary reason for Venus's extreme surface temperatures?

Back

The thick atmosphere of Venus creates a strong greenhouse effect.

Front

What are the main components of Venus's atmosphere?

Back

Venus's atmosphere is primarily composed of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid.

Front

How does Mercury's lack of atmosphere affect its surface temperature?

Back

Without an atmosphere, Mercury experiences extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night.

Front

What is the significance of the greenhouse effect on Venus?

Back

The greenhouse effect on Venus leads to surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead.

Front

What is the surface condition of Mercury?

Back

Mercury's surface is heavily cratered and resembles the Moon's surface.