Unit 9: Investigating Characteristics of the Solar System

Considering the harsh environmental conditions on Mars, including its thin atmosphere and lack of liquid water, is it currently believed that Mars supports life?

• Yes

• No

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NGSS.MS-LS1-5

Both Earth and Mars are inside the Sun's habitable zone, as shown in the diagram. Considering, the conditions on Mars and Earth, which of the following factors contributes to Earth's ability to support life but is less favorable on Mars?

• Earth's proximity to the Sun.

• Earth's larger atmospheric density.

• Earth's abundant liquid water.

• Earth's rotation speed.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What factor is crucial for Earth's ability to maintain a stable climate suitable for life?

• the magnetic field of Earth

• the rotation period of Earth

• the composition of the atmosphere

• the size of Earth

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Currently, the only place in the solar system where known life exists is Earth.  In 2018, NASA released information that one of Jupiter's moons might be a good place to seek out possible life.  The diagram shows the moon of Jupiter that scientists are referencing. Which characteristic of this moon suggests it might support life?

• It has a thick atmosphere similar to Venus.

• It orbits within a potentially habitable zone.

• It features a subsurface ocean of liquid water.

• It has multiple layers of ice covering its surface.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Review the provided astronomical data and identify which exoplanets are the least likely to support life based on their environmental conditions. Check all that apply.

• Kepler 186f

• Gleise 832c

• DENIS-P

• Alpha Centauri Bb

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NGSS.HS-LS4-5

Which factors are crucial for a planet to potentially harbor life? (Select all that apply)

• A stable orbit around a sun

• An atmosphere rich in oxygen and nitrogen

• Presence of magnetic field to deflect solar and cosmic radiation

• Existence of liquid water on the surface

• Surface temperatures that allow for chemical reactions

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What is the primary function of the heat shield attached to the Apollo Command Module during its reentry into Earth's atmosphere?

• A. To protect the module from the intense heat generated by atmospheric friction.

• B. To generate additional thrust to guide the module back to Earth.

• C. To emit signals for tracking the module's descent.

• D. To inflate and act as a parachute for water landings.

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NGSS.MS-PS3-3

Which of the following is a primary function of an astronaut's suit?

• Providing oxygen

• Enabling telepathic communication

• Shielding from cosmic rays

• Enhancing physical strength

During a long-duration space mission, which item is essential for maintaining communication with Earth?

• Space suit

• Communication satellites

• Food supplies

• Water recycling system

Considering the concept of the habitable zone, which is the region where conditions may be just right to support life, which of the following planets falls within this zone of our solar system?

• Mercury

• Mars

• Earth

• Jupiter