Question

Moon and Planets Quick Check
3 of 43 of 4 Items
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

Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.
Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.

Venus has a thick atmosphere which blocks heat from the surface.
Venus has a thick atmosphere which blocks heat from the surface.

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.

Answer 1

The best explanation for why Mars' and Venus' surface temperatures vary, despite both planets having atmospheres that contain mostly carbon dioxide, is:

**Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.**

Venus has a thick atmosphere that traps heat very effectively, leading to extremely high surface temperatures, while the thin atmosphere of Mars is not capable of retaining heat, resulting in much colder surface temperatures.