Exploring the Terrestrial Planets

Front

Which factor is most important when analyzing the atmosphere of a terrestrial planet?

Back

The presence of greenhouse gases

Answer explanation

The presence of greenhouse gases is crucial as they trap heat, influencing a planet's temperature and climate. This factor directly affects the atmosphere's ability to support life and maintain stable conditions.

Front

How do the surface features of Mars compare to those of Earth?

Back

Mars has larger canyons and volcanoes than Earth

Answer explanation

Mars features the largest volcano, Olympus Mons, and the longest canyon, Valles Marineris, surpassing Earth's geological formations. This makes the correct choice about Mars having larger canyons and volcanoes than Earth.

Front

Evaluate the geological processes that have shaped the surface of Venus.

Back

Extensive volcanic activity

Answer explanation

Venus's surface is primarily shaped by extensive volcanic activity, which has created vast lava plains and numerous volcanoes. Unlike Earth, Venus lacks plate tectonics, and erosion by liquid water is minimal due to its harsh environment.

Front

Which of the following best describes the orbital mechanics of Mercury?

Back

Mercury's orbit is highly elliptical

Answer explanation

Mercury's orbit is highly elliptical, meaning it has a significant variation in distance from the Sun during its orbit. This is a key characteristic of its orbital mechanics, distinguishing it from more circular orbits.

Front

Assess the habitability potential of Mars based on current scientific understanding.

Back

Mars has conditions that could support microbial life.

Answer explanation

Mars has conditions that could support microbial life, such as subsurface water and essential nutrients, making it a candidate for potential habitability, unlike the other options which are inaccurate.

Front

What evidence supports the theory that Venus once had water on its surface?

Back

Deuterium to hydrogen ratio in the atmosphere

Answer explanation

The deuterium to hydrogen ratio in Venus's atmosphere suggests that it lost a significant amount of water. A higher ratio indicates that water was once abundant, supporting the theory that Venus had water on its surface.

Front

Which geological process is primarily responsible for the formation of the Moon's maria?

Back

Volcanic eruptions

Answer explanation

The Moon's maria were formed primarily by volcanic eruptions that filled large impact basins with basaltic lava, creating the dark, flat plains we see today. This process is distinct from impact cratering and erosion.

Front

Analyze the role of Earth's magnetic field in protecting its atmosphere.

Back

It deflects solar wind particles

Answer explanation

Earth's magnetic field plays a crucial role by deflecting solar wind particles, which helps protect the atmosphere from being stripped away. This is essential for maintaining the conditions necessary for life on the planet.

Front

Compare the atmospheric pressure on Venus to that on Earth.

Back

Venus has higher atmospheric pressure than Earth

Answer explanation

Venus has a thick atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide, resulting in an atmospheric pressure about 92 times greater than that of Earth. Therefore, the correct choice is that Venus has higher atmospheric pressure than Earth.

Front

Interpret the significance of the discovery of seasonal methane emissions on Mars.

Back

It suggests active geological or biological processes

Answer explanation

The discovery of seasonal methane emissions on Mars suggests active geological or biological processes, as methane is often associated with life or geological activity, indicating that Mars may have dynamic systems at work.