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Observation Of Differences Between Venus And Earth

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4. Each of the planets within our solar system possess characteristics that make them unique, despite forming from notably “universal” elements. These differences can be attributed to the conditions they were under during their formation, and a study of their composition and atmospheres can help us explore their past. The composition and relative “thickness” or density of a planet’s atmosphere is dependent on gravitational strength and relative temperature. Larger planets are capable of stronger gravitational forces, resulting in the ability to retain gases like hydrogen and oxygen. Smaller planets are unable to carryout this retention, leading to outgassing of these elements early during their formation. Temperature also influences the ability …show more content…

For example, bacteria on earth are responsible for regulation of nitrogen levels. Evolution of photosynthetic activity during the primordial existence of earth can be attributed to the CO2 and O2 balance that we rely on today. Highly volatile “rare” gases were most likely dissipated to space during the formation of terrestrial planets, suggested by the fact that these rare gases exist in higher abundances in different isotopic forms in the Sun’s high temperature and gravitational pull than they do in Earth’s atmosphere. Observation of differences between Venus and Earth can demonstrate how critical a balance between temperature and density are for atmospheric composition and how we can use these observations to form hypotheses about a planet’s formation. Venus is very similar in size to Earth, but it’s incredibly high temperatures lead to a loss of H2 and O2, causing an oxidative atmosphere that doesn’t allow for the presence of water and other organic material. This could suggest that Venus formed at a position much closer to the sun. In contrast, Earth’s extensive oceans result from a methane rich, reducing atmosphere that preserved the elements essential to

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