What is the most likely origin of the Valles Marineris on Mars?
A) it is a fissure in the surface carved out by a giant impact
B) it is a tectonic fracture associated with the formation of the adjacent Tharsis bulge
C) it is a huge canyon system formed by water erosion
D) it was formed from the separation of two tectonic plates

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Valles Marineris is believed to be a tectonic fracture associated with the formation of the adjacent Tharsis bulge. The Tharsis bulge, which is an enormous volcanic plateau on Mars, is thought to have caused stress on the surrounding crust, leading to the formation of the Valles Marineris. There is also evidence of faulting and movement within the canyon, further supporting the tectonic origin theory.

What Is the Most Likely Origin of the Valles Marineris