Question

Exoplanet Atmosphere Models

Two scientists discuss the source of nitrogen ($N_2$) in the atmosphere of Kepler-186f, a newly discovered terrestrial exoplanet.

*Scientist 1*
The exoplanet's atmospheric nitrogen is entirely primordial, having been delivered by carbonaceous chondrite meteorites during planetary accretion $4.5$ billion years ago. The nitrogen was subsequently released into the atmosphere via early volcanic outgassing. Because the exoplanet's surface temperature has remained below $250\text{ K}$, there is no active tectonic recycling or geochemical process capable of returning nitrogen to the mantle or releasing new nitrogen from the crust. Thus, the total amount of nitrogen in the atmosphere has remained constant since the planet's formation.

*Scientist 2*
The exoplanet's atmospheric nitrogen is not primordial but is continuously replenished. Kepler-186f experiences ongoing tidal heating, keeping its mantle partially molten and driving active subduction zones. Nitrogen is continuously drawn into the mantle via plate tectonics and then released back into the atmosphere through arc volcanism. Furthermore, solar wind strip-mining slowly removes nitrogen from the upper atmosphere, meaning that without this active tectonic cycle, Kepler-186f would have lost its atmospheric nitrogen within $1$ billion years of formation.

Consider the following statement: According to Scientist 1, the volcanic outgassing of nitrogen on Kepler-186f occurred only during the early history of the planet and is not an ongoing process.

Based on the models provided, is this statement True or False?