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Astronomy quiz question: Mars' atmosphere

Astronomy 10 Quiz 5, Spring Semester 2008
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

Astronomy 10 learning goal Q5.5

[3.0 points.] Which one of the following choices best explains how carbon dioxide (CO_2) molecules caused the recent evolution of Mars to diverge from that of the Earth?
(A) CO_2 from the atmosphere was removed without being replaced, causing Mars' atmosphere to become thinner and colder.
(B) More CO_2 was released into the atmosphere than could be recycled, causing Mars' atmosphere to become thinner and colder.
(C) CO_2 was removed from the atmosphere without being replaced, causing Mars' atmosphere to become thicker and hotter.
(D) Too much CO_2 was released into the atmosphere, causing Mars' atmosphere to become thicker and hotter.
(E) More CO_2 was released into the atmosphere than could be recycled, causing Mars' atmosphere to become thicker and hotter.

Correct answer: (A).

Student responses
Section 5166
(A) : 30 students
(B) : 19 students
(C) : 2 students
(D) : 4 students
(E) : 5 students

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