Which planet is known as the Red Planet?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Mars
Explanation
Mars is widely known as the Red Planet due to its distinct reddish appearance in the night sky. This characteristic color is caused by the abundance of iron oxide—commonly known as rust—on its surface rocks, regolith, and dust. The iron oxide absorbs blue and green wavelengths of light while reflecting red wavelengths, giving the planet its famous rusty hue. Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and the second-smallest planet in the Solar System. It has a thin atmosphere consisting mostly of carbon dioxide and features remarkable geographical characteristics, including the solar system's largest volcano, Olympus Mons, and a massive canyon system known as Valles Marineris.
Key Points
Earth is often called the Blue Planet because liquid water covers roughly 71% of its surface area, which scatters light to create a vibrant blue hue from space.
Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system and is classified as a gas giant, primarily recognized for its colorful bands of swirling clouds and the Great Red Spot, which is a massive, centuries-old storm.
Venus is the brightest and hottest planet in our solar system, completely shrouded in thick clouds of sulfuric acid that trap heat through a runaway greenhouse effect.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: What specific chemical compound gives the surface of Mars its characteristic reddish color?
Answer: Iron oxide (also known as ferric oxide or rust) is the chemical compound responsible for the red color.
Question: What are the names of the two small, natural satellites (moons) that orbit the planet Mars?
Answer: The two moons of Mars are named Phobos and Dei