Examkin

Question

Difficulty: EasyComparing and Contrasting Models

Early Mars Climate Models

Astronomers have proposed two models to explain the geological features on Mars, such as dry river valleys and lake beds, which suggest the past presence of liquid water.

*Model 1 (Warm and Wet)*
Early Mars had a thick atmosphere primarily composed of carbon dioxide (CO2CO_2) and water vapor. This thick atmosphere created a strong greenhouse effect that maintained surface temperatures above 0∘C0^\circ\text{C}, allowing liquid water to exist continuously on the surface for millions of years.

*Model 2 (Cold and Icy)*
Early Mars was generally cold, with surface temperatures rarely rising above 0∘C0^\circ\text{C} due to a thin atmosphere. Liquid water could not exist on the surface for long periods. Instead, liquid water only flowed temporarily during brief warming events triggered by volcanic eruptions or meteor impacts, which temporarily melted surface ice.

Based on the models, which of the following is a point of agreement between Model 1 and Model 2?

  1. Liquid water was present on the surface of Mars at some point in its history.Answer
  2. B
    Mars had a thick atmosphere of carbon dioxide that maintained warm temperatures for millions of years.
  3. C
    Surface temperatures on Mars were constantly below 0∘C0^\circ\text{C} throughout its history.
  4. D
    Volcanic eruptions were the primary cause of a continuous greenhouse effect.

Answer

Liquid water was present on the surface of Mars at some point in its history.
The correct answer is the statement that liquid water was present on the surface of Mars at some point. Model 1 asserts that liquid water existed continuously on the surface for millions of years, while Model 2 asserts that liquid water flowed temporarily during brief warming events. Therefore, both models agree that liquid water was present on the surface at some point in Martian history.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core claims of Model 1 regarding liquid water.
Model 1 states that liquid water existed continuously on the surface for millions of years.
To compare the models, we must first understand what each model asserts about the presence of liquid water.
2
Identify the core claims of Model 2 regarding liquid water.
Model 2 states that liquid water flowed temporarily on the surface during warming events.
Next, we find the corresponding claim in the second model to see where they intersect.
3
Compare the claims to find the point of agreement.
Both models agree that liquid water was present on the surface of Mars, regardless of the duration (continuous vs. temporary).
By contrasting the specific mechanisms, we isolate the shared conclusion that liquid water did exist on the surface at some point.

Key Concept

Comparing and Contrasting Models
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question

Topics

Comparing and Contrasting Models

More questions from this topic