Question

section 23.2 assessment
reviewing concepts

1. which inner planet is smallest?
2. how does venus compare with earth?
3. identify one distinguishing characteristic of each inner planet.
4. what surface features does mars have that are also common on earth?

critical thinking

1. making judgments besides earth, which inner planet may have been most able to support life? explain your answer.
2. relating cause and effect why are surface temperatures so high on venus?

Explanation:

1. Mercury is the smallest inner - planet due to its size and mass compared to others.
2. Venus is similar in size to Earth but has a much denser atmosphere and higher surface temperatures.
3. Mercury: has a heavily cratered surface; Venus: has a thick, toxic atmosphere; Earth: has liquid water and life; Mars: has polar ice caps.
4. Mars has valleys, volcanoes, and polar ice caps which are also found on Earth.
5. Mars may have been most able to support life besides Earth as there is evidence of past water on its surface, and water is essential for life.
6. Surface temperatures on Venus are high because of its thick atmosphere rich in carbon - dioxide, which causes a strong greenhouse effect.

Answer:

1. Mercury
2. Similar in size, but has a denser atmosphere and higher temperatures.
3. Mercury: Heavily cratered surface; Venus: Thick, toxic atmosphere; Earth: Liquid water and life; Mars: Polar ice caps
4. Valleys, volcanoes, polar ice caps
5. Mars, due to evidence of past water.
6. Because of its thick, carbon - dioxide rich atmosphere causing a strong greenhouse effect.