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Geology
Geology
The planet is mainly composed of silicon, oxygen, iron and magnesium.
A layer of fine dust covers the surface of Mars, with volcanic basalt rock beneath it. The rocks are composed of minerals such as olivine, pyroxene, amphiboles, feldspar, carbonates, sulfates (jarosite, gypsum), silica, phyllosilicates, phosphates, and iron oxides (hematite).
Mars has a large and dense core, stretching about 2,000 km, and is made of iron, nickel and sulfur. Around the core is a rocky mantle about 1,500 km wide. The crust is about 30 km thick and is composed of iron, magnesium, aluminum, calcium, and potassium.
Wikimedia
India Today
Atmosphere
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is composed mainly of carbon dioxide (95%), as well as nitrogen (2.5%), argon (2%), and traces of oxygen (.2%).
The atmosphere is very thin, providing limited amounts of oxygen and protection. It wasn't always this way, look at the history page to learn more about it.
Mars compared to Earth
Mars compared to Earth
The atmospheric pressure on the surface of Mars is only .6% of Earth’s, meaning the atmosphere is extremely thin.
Mars’ magnetosphere is much simpler, and weaker than Earth’s, offering less protection against charged particles and solar wind. The lack of a magnetic dynamo makes Mars unable to maintain to thick atmosphere or hold heat or liquid water, leaving the planet cold and dry.
NASA
Geology/Atmosphere Fun Facts:
Geology/Atmosphere Fun Facts:
Mars’ red color comes from large amounts of Iron Oxide in its soil and rocks.
Mars has the highest mountain in the solar system, mountain Olympus Mons, standing at 24 km high.
Evidence shows there is a lake beneath the south polar ice cap.
Mars’ soil contains water that can be extracted.
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