Which of the following accurately explains the reason Mars loses its atmosphere to space over time?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Lack of a global magnetic field to deflect solar wind.
Explanation:
☛ In its early history, Mars possessed a thick atmosphere and liquid water on its surface.
☛ As the interior of Mars cooled, its internal dynamo shut down, causing it to lose its global magnetic field (magnetosphere).
☛ Without a protective magnetic shield, high-energy charged particles from the solar wind directly interact with the upper Martian atmosphere.
☛ This process, known as atmospheric stripping, gradually stripped away the Martian atmosphere into outer space over billions of years.
☛ NASA's MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN) mission provided direct confirmation of this atmospheric escape mechanism.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Atmospheric Composition: The remaining thin atmosphere of Mars consists of approximately 95% Carbon Dioxide (), followed by nitrogen and argon.
☛ Surface Gravity: Mars has only about 38% of Earth's surface gravity, which also reduces its ability to retain lighter atmospheric gases.
☛ Sulfuric Acid Clouds: Thick clouds composed of sulfuric acid are characteristic of the dense atmosphere of Venus, not Mars.
☛ Geodynamo: Unlike Mars, Earth maintains a strong global magnetic field generated by the movement of molten iron in its liquid outer core.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which planet is known as the 'Red Planet' due to the presence of iron oxide on its surface? → Mars
☛ What are the two natural satellites (moons) of Mars? → Phobos and Deimos
☛ Which NASA mission was specifically launched to study the loss of Mars' atmosphere to space? → MAVEN
☛ What is the name of the largest volcano and shield mountain in the Solar System located on Mars? → Olympus Mons
☛ What is the approximate percentage of carbon dioxide in the Martian atmosphere? → Approximately 95%