Question

As you read this passage, identify the evidence that is used to support the author’s claim that early astronomers thought there was evidence for life on Mars.

The idea of life on Mars appeared at the end of the 19th century after the Italian astronomer and director of the observatory in Milan, Giovanni Virginio Schiaparelli, discovered a network of fine lines, which he called "canals," on the planet's surface. Also on the Martian surface, Schiaparelli observed large dark areas, which he called "oceans." Dark areas of smaller size he named "lakes," and light yellow areas he named "continents." The discovery of Schiaparelli attracted the attention of many astronomers. Using powerful telescopes, they managed to discover on the Martian surface many canals that always linked seas or lakes. In 1906, assuming that the canals on Mars did exist, American astronomer Percival Lowell put forward a theory that attempted to explain their origin. According to this theory, the canals were built by Martians to transport water from polar to arid areas. Schiaparelli and Lowell observed that the Martian surface changes with the seasons and suggested that this may be related to vegetation.

What evidence does this passage provide to support the author's claims that early astronomers believed there was life on Mars?

Schiaparelli and Lowell believed that the surface of Mars indicated the presence of vegetation, seasons, and Martian-built canals.

The planetary surface of Mars, when viewed through powerful telescopes, looked exactly like that the surface of Earth.

The surface of the planet was covered in continents, lakes, and oceans that looked geologically similar to landforms on Earth.

Mars appeared to contain the ruins of ancient cities, indicating the presence of Martians who must have built them.

Answer 1

The passage provides evidence that supports the claim that early astronomers believed there was life on Mars by highlighting Schiaparelli and Lowell's observations.

How to explain

They noted the presence of "canals" connecting seas or lakes on Mars, suggesting artificial construction by Martians. Additionally, they observed changes in the Martian surface with seasons, indicating potential vegetation.

Schiaparelli's labeling of dark areas as "oceans" and "lakes," along with light yellow areas termed "continents," resembled Earth's landforms, indicating a familiar geological structure.

These details, including the identified canals and Earth-like features, were interpreted by early astronomers as signs of potential life and civilization on Mars, supporting their belief in extraterrestrial existence.