Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Physicsworld
Conext: A new study suggests that Venus is losing water much faster than previously thought, with researchers identifying a mechanism in the Venusian ionosphere responsible for this accelerated water loss.
Venus may have once had oceans, but now only 0.002% of its atmosphere is water vapor. The process of non-thermal hydrogen escape, where solar radiation splits water molecules and hydrogen escapes into space, is a key factor.
About Venus:
Venus, the second planet from the Sun and the closest to Earth, is renowned as the brightest planet in the night sky. It lacks a satellite and its atmosphere is primarily composed of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid droplets. Notably, Venus rotates in the opposite direction to most planets, from east to west. Alongside Mercury, Earth, and Mars, Venus is classified as a terrestrial planet.
