Mars Appears to Have Long Branching Channels That Have the Appearance

question 32

Multiple Choice

Mars appears to have long branching channels that have the appearance of being formed by a flowing liquid. Yet we know that liquids would not stay liquid in the very thin atmosphere we have on the Martian surface? So how can we explain the channels?

• A) they were made by wind-blown dust during the great Martian dust storms
• B) they are made by plate tectonics; by plates in the crust separating
• C) Mars had a thicker atmosphere long ago when the channels formed
• D) they were formed by volcanic lava from Olympus Mons
• E) the channels are artificial, made by a race of Martians that died out

---

Definitions:

Rover

Typically refers to a mobile vehicle designed for exploring the surface of planets or other celestial bodies, though it can also mean someone who roams.

Foraging Gene

The foraging gene is a gene associated with foraging behavior, influencing how an organism searches for and collects food.

Selfish Herd

A behavioral strategy seen in animals where individuals try to reduce their predation risk by moving to the center of a group, thus using others as a shield.

Predators

Organisms that hunt, kill, and consume other organisms for food.