Compare Mar's system to Earth's system?

Mars and Earth are both planets of our solar system. As explained by Matt Williams of Universe Today, the planets share similarities in “size, inclination, structure, composition, and even the presence of water on their surfaces.” However, there are also several differences amongst the planets’ systems, which are identified and briefly described below.

Surface Features

• Both planets have mountains, valleys, plains, volcanoes, and sand dunes.


• Asteroids and meteors from space have collided with both planets. However, the craters from these collisions are much better preserved on Mars.


• Scientists speculate that gullies and channels on Mars were formed at one time by flowing water, just as they are created on Earth.

Location of Water

• The majority of Earth, 70%, is covered by water, which is what contributes the planet’s blue appearance.


• The surface of Maras is dry and dusty. The soil on Mars is rich in iron, which is what produces the planet’s red appearance. The majority of water on Mars is found beneath its surface.

Icecaps

• Frozen water has been found at the poles of both planets.

Atmospheres

• Mars’ atmosphere is much thinner when compared to the atmosphere of Earth.


• Earth’s atmosphere is primarily composed of nitrogen and oxygen.


• The atmosphere of Mars is primarily composed of carbon dioxide, argon, and nitrogen.

Temperatures

• The thick atmosphere that surrounds Earth serves as a blanket that traps energy from the Sun. This prevents a larger temperature drop at night.


• The thin atmosphere on Mars causes allows energy from the Sun to be reflected back into space. Thus, there is large temperature variations between day and night on Mars.