Wednesday 26 June 2024

Wonder-filled Solar System – Part V

 




Wonders in Mars


Mars also holds mysteries. The highest mountain on Earth is Everest, standing at 8,850 meters. But is Everest the tallest mountain in the solar system? If not, what is the highest mountain in the solar system and where is it located? The answer lies on Mars.


Mars has the highest mountain in the solar system 

Mars is home to the tallest mountain in the solar system - Olympus Mons, which stands at about 22 kilometres, almost three times the height of Mount Everest. The period from 3.7 to 3 billion years ago is known as the Hesperian era on Mars. During this time, the largest volcanic eruptions on Mars occurred, with massive lava flows emerging from the subsurface, creating extensive lava plains. Additionally, the surface was pushed upward, forming many mountains and hills. This is how Mount Olympus was created.




Not only that, Mars also has the largest basin in the solar system. It is believed that a massive asteroid, about 60% the size of the Moon, struck Mars' north pole. As a result, the north pole sank about 26 kilometres, creating a vast flat region. This formed the Borealis Basin, the largest basin in the solar system, with a length of 10,600 kilometres and a width of 8,500 kilometres. This enormous impact likely destroyed much of Mars' original atmosphere.


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