Although it's clear that Mars once had liquid water on its surface, astronomers have debated whether the evidence of ancient water reflects a prolonged phase of warm, wet conditions -the so-called wet and warm scenario-or a brief period of melting in an otherwise consistently frozen environment Researchers Benjamin T.Cardenas and Michael P Lamb recently added to this debate by using data from NASA and the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter to map the topography of what is now a large basin in Mars's northern hemisphere. Cardenas and Lamb concluded that the wet and warm scenario is likely correct. Which finding about the basin, if true.would most directly support Cardenas and Lamb's conclusion? Choose 1 answer: A Its physical characteristics are most consistent with it having formed as a result of a massive but short lived influx of liquid water. B It is surrounded by channels that could have been formed either by

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify which finding about the basin on Mars would most directly support the conclusion of researchers Benjamin T. Cardenas and Michael P. Lamb, who believe that the wet and warm scenario is likely correct. This scenario suggests that Mars once had a prolonged phase of warm, wet conditions.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />We need to evaluate each option based on its alignment with the wet and warm scenario. <br /><br />## Step 3<br />Option A suggests that the basin formed as a result of a massive but short-lived influx of liquid water. This does not align with the wet and warm scenario, which suggests a prolonged phase of warm, wet conditions.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option B suggests that the basin is surrounded by channels that could have been formed either by water or wind. This aligns with the wet and warm scenario, as it suggests the presence of water.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option C suggests that the basin is surrounded by channels that could have been formed either by water or wind. This aligns with the wet and warm scenario, as it suggests the presence of water.<br /><br />## Step 6<br />Option D suggests that the basin is surrounded by channels that could have been formed either by water or wind. This aligns with the wet and warm scenario, as it suggests the presence of water.