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The Composition of the Atmosphere on Mars Versus Earth

Although they share a solar system, the atmospheres of Venus, Earth and Mars are vastly different. While Earth's atmosphere has given rise to life forms, the atmosphere of Venus and Mars may help people understand Earth's possible future.

Venus' Atmosphere
- The atmosphere of Venus is much heavier than Earth's.
  
  The atmosphere of Venus is dense. It consists primarily of carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water vapor, along with low levels of carbon monoxide, neon, argon and sulfur dioxide, according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Earth's Atmosphere
- Earth's atmosphere allows life to exist.
  
  NASA states that Earth's atmosphere consists of 78 percent nitrogen, 21 percent oxygen, with argon, water, ozone and carbon dioxide making up most of the rest.
The Atmosphere of Mars
- Ninety-five percent of the atmosphere of Mars is carbon dioxide, according to the Boston Globe online. The rest of the atmosphere is nitrogen, argon, oxygen, water and methane.
Comparison
- Venus and Mars both have more carbon dioxide that Earth, possibly indicating what could happen to Earth if global warming keeps carbon dioxide levels rising.
  
  As Earth gradually drifts from the sun, the planet could cool like Mars in the distant future.

Astronomy