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 surface of high mountains which absorb heat. Venus has a surface of high mountains which absorb heat. Mars has a surface of red rocks and sand which reflect heat. Mars has a surface of red rocks and sand which reflect heat. 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 thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat. Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.

Answer 1

The best explanation for why Mars' and Venus' surface temperatures vary, despite both having atmospheres that contain mostly carbon dioxide, is: **Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.**

Venus has a very thick atmosphere, which creates a strong greenhouse effect, trapping heat and resulting in extremely high surface temperatures. In contrast, Mars has a much thinner atmosphere, which means it cannot retain heat effectively, leading to much lower surface temperatures.