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While Earth and Mars share similar features and processes,
they also differ significantly. For example, temperatures
on Earth's surface range from a high of about 58°C
to a low of about -90°C. Temperatures on Mars are
colder, averaging around
-60°C.
To know where and how to search for evidence of life
on Mars, it helps to understand where life is found
on Earth. Most living organisms on Earth are restricted
to habitats with a narrow range of conditions, such
as moderate temperatures and plentiful sunlight. Some
places on Earth, like hot springs and caves, are considered
to be extreme habitats because they lie outside the
range of conditions in which most organisms live.
Amazingly, there are organisms capable of living in
extreme environments. Some of the extreme environments
on Earth resemble conditions found on Mars.
! Click
each image to see organisms that can survive in these
extreme conditions.
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