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)

Question

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.
Mars has a surface of red rocks and sand which reflect heat.

Answer 1

The best explanation for the variation in surface temperatures between Mars and Venus is:

Mars has a thin atmosphere that cannot hold much heat.

Venus has a thick atmosphere that creates a strong greenhouse effect, trapping heat and resulting in much higher surface temperatures compared to Mars, which has a much thinner atmosphere.