Venus is sometimes thought to be Earth’s sister planet. In some ways the two planets are very much alike. Venus is a little smaller than Earth and it has a similar density and chemical composition. But Venus does not support life like Earth. What is one important reason why Venus cannot support life as we know it?
A Venus has an extremely dense atmosphere.
B Venus’ surface temperature is about 480ºC.
C The water on Venus’ surface is too hot to support life.
D Venus’ dense clouds keep the planet’s temperature very low.
The correct answer is B: Venus’ surface temperature is about 480ºC.
Explanation: The surface temperature on Venus is incredibly high, averaging around 480ºC (896ºF). This extreme heat is a direct result of a thick atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide, which creates a strong greenhouse effect. Such high temperatures make it impossible for life as we know it to survive.