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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the approximate surface temperature range on the planet Mercury?
A
From about -180 °C at night to 430 °C during the day
B
From about -50 °C at night to 100 °C during the day
C
From about 0 °C at night to 200 °C during the day
D
From about -273 °C at night to 1000 °C during the day
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that Mercury has a very thin atmosphere, which means it cannot retain heat during the night, leading to extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night.
Recall that during the day, Mercury's surface temperature can become extremely high due to its proximity to the Sun and lack of atmospheric insulation.
Recognize that at night, without an atmosphere to trap heat, the surface temperature drops drastically, reaching very low values.
Compare the given temperature ranges with known scientific data about Mercury's surface temperatures, which typically range from about -180 °C at night to 430 °C during the day.
Conclude that the temperature range 'From about -180 °C at night to 430 °C during the day' best describes Mercury's surface temperature variation.