Mercury's tenuous atmosphere of sodium, magnesium, and potassium comes from:
A)atoms that have been kicked off the surface by the solar wind.
B)volcanic outgassing.
C)residual gases from Mercury's formation.
D)impacts of asteroids or comets.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mercury's atmosphere is constantly being replenished by atoms that are kicked off the surface by the solar wind. This process is known as sputtering. There is no evidence of volcanic activity on Mercury, and the residual gases from its formation would have long since dissipated. While impacts from asteroids or comets could release gases, they would not be enough to sustain the planet's thin atmosphere. Mercury's tenuous atmosphere comes from atoms that have been kicked off the surface by the solar wind. There is no evidence of recent volcanic activity on Mercury, and residual gases from its formation would have dissipated long ago. Impacts of asteroids or comets could release gases temporarily, but they would quickly escape Mercury's weak gravity. Only the constant bombardment of the solar wind can maintain a source of gas around the planet.

Mercury's Tenuous Atmosphere of Sodium, Magnesium, and Potassium Comes From