Scientists have discovered a new planet. The planet is in a solar system whose star is similar in size to the sun and is about as far from the star as Venus is from the sun. The planet is similar in size to Earth, and its atmosphere is similar in thickness to Earth’s atmosphere. The atmosphere is composed almost entirely of carbon dioxide and methane. In three to five sentences, make a hypothesis about the temperature on the planet’s surface. Explain your answer using information about the planet’s location and atmosphere. (4 points)

Answer 1

Based on the information provided, we can hypothesize that the temperature on the planet's surface would be extremely high. The planet's distance from its star, similar to Venus's distance from the sun, suggests that it receives a significant amount of solar radiation. Additionally, the composition of its atmosphere, which is predominantly made up of carbon dioxide and methane, further supports the likelihood of a greenhouse effect occurring. This greenhouse effect would trap heat on the planet's surface, resulting in elevated temperatures.