Which one of the following conditions is most relevant for the presence of life on Mars?
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UPSC Civil Services preparation
- AAtmospheric composition
- BThermal conditions
- COccurrence of ice caps and frozen waterCorrect
- DOccurrence of ozone
Explanation
The correct answer is C because water is considered the most essential prerequisite for life as we know it. While other factors like temperature and atmosphere are important, the discovery of water in the form of ice caps and permafrost on Mars is the strongest indicator that the planet could have supported microbial life in the past or might sustain it in the future. In astrobiology, the search for life follows the water, making the occurrence of frozen water the most relevant condition among the choices provided.
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