Quiz: Mars Exploration: Our Neighbor in the Solar System

Question 1

What is the primary reason scientists believe Mars might have once supported life?

Accepted Answer

Evidence of ancient water flows has been found

Answer

It has rings like Saturn

Answer

It has a strong magnetic field

Answer

It is the closest planet to the Sun

Question 2

Which instrument on the Curiosity rover is specifically designed to analyze the chemical composition of Martian rocks?

Accepted Answer

ChemCam

Answer

PanCam

Answer

MastCam

Answer

SAM

Question 3

The Martian year is approximately how many Earth days?

Accepted Answer

687 days

Answer

365 days

Answer

243 days

Answer

88 days

Question 4

Which of the following is a major challenge for human missions to Mars related to radiation?

Accepted Answer

High levels of cosmic and solar radiation due to thin atmosphere

Answer

Excessive heat from the sun

Answer

Lack of liquid water on the surface

Answer

Strong gravitational pulls

Question 5

Why is it challenging to grow plants on Mars using current technology?

Accepted Answer

Mars has high levels of perchlorates in the soil which are toxic to most plants

Answer

Mars has too much oxygen in its atmosphere

Answer

The surface temperature is consistently above freezing

Answer

Mars has a strong magnetic field that interferes with plant growth