Question

In the past, scientists believed that surface formations on Mars were canals, built by intelligent beings. Scientists later proved that the canals were simply natural formations. Which of the following provided evidence that there were only natural formations on Mars?

A. Probes were sent to Mars that collected data about the planet's surface.
B. Astronauts landed on the Moon and observed different surface conditions there.
C. A survey was conducted to see how many people thought there was life on Mars.
D. A computer model simulated the formation of landforms using data from geological fieldwork on Earth.

Answer 1

Option A.

The belief in Martian canals as a sign of intelligent life was debunked by data and images from probes sent to Mars, which showed natural geological features. This evidence proved that the canals were simply natural formations, not constructs of intelligent beings.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the past, some scientists believed that straight lines observed on Mars were canals constructed by intelligent beings. This belief was largely due to misinterpretations and optical illusions experienced when observing the planet through telescopes.

With advancements in technology, evidence has come from spacecraft that have landed on Mars and returned detailed images and data about the planet's surface.

The most convincing evidence was provided when probes were sent to Mars. These missions, beginning with the first successful flyby in 1964 and leading up to sophisticated rovers like Curiosity and Perseverance, have collected in-situ information about the martian terrain.

Images and measurements from these probes show that the formations are natural, with many geological features such as the Tharsis bulge and Valles Marineris canyons shaped by tectonic and erosive processes, rather than being created by intelligent design.

The definitive evidence that Mars's surface features were natural and not artificially constructed canals came from the analysis of data by these unmanned missions.

Therefore, the correct option that provided evidence there were only natural formations on Mars is A. Probes were sent to Mars that collected data about the planet's surface.