NASA Mars mission: Scientists detect atomic oxygen in Mars' atmosphere

The video discusses the detection of atomic oxygen on Mars by a specialized jetliner flying at high altitudes. Using a spectrometer, the plane measured atomic oxygen in Mars's mesosphere, which differs from the oxygen in Earth's atmosphere. This discovery supports the theory that Mars once had a thicker atmosphere capable of sustaining water and possibly life. Over time, solar winds stripped away Mars's atmosphere, leaving it cold and barren.

What tool was used to measure atomic oxygen on Mars?

• Spectrometer

• Telescope

• Radar

• Microscope

Where in Mars's atmosphere was atomic oxygen found?

• Exosphere

• Mesosphere

• Stratosphere

• Troposphere

How does atomic oxygen on Mars differ from oxygen in Earth's atmosphere?

• It is a molecule of oxygen and nitrogen

• It is a compound of oxygen and hydrogen

• It is a single oxygen atom

• It consists of two oxygen atoms

What do scientists believe about Mars's past climate?

• It was always dry and hot

• It was always cold and barren

• It was once icy and humid

• It was once warm and wet

What is believed to have caused Mars's atmosphere to thin over time?

• Comet collisions

• Solar winds

• Asteroid impacts

• Volcanic eruptions