Planetary scientists studying Mars note that its deuterium-to-hydrogen () atmospheric ratio is five times higher than Earth's. Because deuterium is heavier, light hydrogen escapes Mars's gravity more easily, elevating this ratio over time. However, satellite observations show that during dust storms, water vapor is lofted to high altitudes where ultraviolet radiation breaks it apart. Since these storms occur sporadically and solar activity fluctuates, scientists hypothesize that hydrogen loss is highly variable. Consequently, when a major dust storm coincides with peak solar activity, which increases ultraviolet levels, ______
Which choice most logically completes the text?
- Adeuterium will begin to escape the atmosphere at a faster rate than light hydrogen.
- BMars's atmospheric ratio will rapidly decrease to match Earth's ratio.
- the rate of hydrogen escaping into space will likely experience a temporary surge.Cevap
- Dthe frequency of global dust storms on Mars will begin to align with the cycles of solar activity.
Cevap
the rate of hydrogen escaping into space will likely experience a temporary surge.
The correct option is supported because the passage establishes that global dust storms loft water vapor to high altitudes where ultraviolet radiation dissociates it, and that solar activity levels influence the rate of hydrogen loss. If a major storm occurs during peak solar activity, the abundance of water vapor at high altitudes combined with elevated ultraviolet levels will naturally lead to a temporary increase in the dissociation rate and a subsequent surge in hydrogen escape.
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Logical Inferences
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