* Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Makes up about 95% of the atmosphere.
* Nitrogen (N2): About 2.6% of the atmosphere.
* Argon (Ar): About 1.9% of the atmosphere.
There are also trace amounts of other gases, including:
* Oxygen (O2): Only 0.13% of the atmosphere.
* Water vapor (H2O): Present in very small amounts, and varies greatly depending on location and time of year.
* Carbon monoxide (CO): A small amount, but important for studying the planet's climate.
Key Takeaways:
* Mars' atmosphere is primarily carbon dioxide, making it a very different environment from Earth.
* The thin atmosphere contributes to Mars' cold temperatures and low surface pressure.
* The small amount of oxygen and water vapor makes it difficult for humans to breathe and survive on Mars without special equipment.
