How rapidly a planet loses its atmosphere depends on the planet's
I.escape velocity (determined by mass and radius).
II.atmospheric composition.
III.temperature.
IV.rotation period.
A)I & II
B)III & IV
C)I, II, & III
D)II, III, & IV
E)I, II, III, & IV

Question

How rapidly a planet loses its atmosphere depends on the planet's 
I.escape velocity (determined by mass and radius).
II.atmospheric composition.
III.temperature.
IV.rotation period.
A)I & II
B)III & IV
C)I, II, & III
D)II, III, & IV
E)I, II, III, & IV

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate at which a planet loses its atmosphere is influenced by its escape velocity (which is determined by the planet's mass and radius), the composition of its atmosphere (since different gases have different molecular masses and thus escape velocities), and the temperature (higher temperatures can increase the average speed of gas molecules, making it easier for them to escape the planet's gravity). The rotation period of a planet does not directly affect atmospheric loss in the same way these other factors do.

How Rapidly a Planet Loses Its Atmosphere Depends on the Planet's