Orbiting Bodies' Properties Quick Check
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Question
Which of the following best explains why Mars' and Venus' surface temperatures vary, despite both planets having atmospheres that contain mostly carbon dioxide?(1 point)
Responses
Venus has a thick atmosphere which blocks heat from the surface.
Venus has a thick atmosphere which blocks heat from the surface.
Mars has a surface of red rocks and sand which reflect heat.
Mars has a surface of red rocks and sand which reflect heat.
Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.
Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.
Venus has a surface of high mountains which absorb heat.
Venus has a thick atmosphere which blocks heat from the surface.
The correct answer is:
Venus has a thick atmosphere which blocks heat from the surface.
Venus has a thick atmosphere composed mostly of carbon dioxide, which creates a greenhouse effect. This thick atmosphere traps heat, causing the surface temperature of Venus to be extremely hot, reaching around 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius). On the other hand, Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat, resulting in much lower surface temperatures.