NASA to search for fossils on Martian crater

NASA is exploring Mars' Jezero Crater to find signs of ancient life. Studies have identified carbonate and hydrated silica minerals, which may preserve evidence of past life. The Mars 2020 Rover will collect rock samples to understand Mars' transition from a wet planet to a dry desert. These findings could reveal insights into the planet's evolution and the potential for past microbial life.

What mineral deposits were identified along the inner rim of the Jezero crater?

• Nitrates

• Phosphates

• Carbonates

• Silicates

What is the primary goal of NASA's Mars 2020 Rover mission?

• To collect rock core samples

• To establish a human colony

• To build a space station

• To launch a satellite

How might carbonates on Mars help scientists?

• By preserving signs of past life

• By creating new minerals

• By increasing atmospheric pressure

• By providing energy resources

What transformation of Mars is suggested by the presence of carbonates?

• From a volcanic planet to an icy one

• From a gas giant to a rocky planet

• From a cold desert to a lush forest

• From a wet planet to a dry desert

What makes hydrated silica minerals significant in the search for ancient life?

• They glow in the dark

• They are easy to mine

• They can preserve ancient life

• They are abundant on Earth