Astronomy Practice Exam

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What is the approximate length of a solar day on Mars?

23 hours 15 minutes
24 hours 39 minutes 35 seconds
25 hours 1 minute
26 hours 30 minutes

The correct answer is: 24 hours 39 minutes 35 seconds

The correct answer reflects the approximate length of a solar day, or "sol," on Mars, which is about 24 hours and 39 minutes. This duration is significant because it provides insight into how the Martian rotation compares with Earth's day. A solar day on Mars is longer than an Earth day but is not quite close to 25 hours. The Martian day is determined by the time it takes for Mars to rotate once on its axis, which also impacts various phenomena such as weather patterns and the planning of robotic missions on the planet's surface. This information is crucial for understanding the potential for human exploration and habitation, as it provides a temporal framework for activities that could take place on Mars. This answer emphasizes the unique characteristics of Mars as compared to Earth, highlighting the difference in days between the two planets. The length of a sol is an important factor for scientists and engineers when considering missions to the Martian surface.