Ep 2. Earth: Venus's Evil Twin
- TVG
- July 21, 2015
- 43 min
-
7.9 (94)
In season 4, episode 2 of How the Universe Works, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the planet Venus, which is considered to be Earth's "evil twin." While Earth is a lush, habitable planet, Venus is a barren, inhospitable wasteland with a toxic atmosphere.
The episode starts by discussing how the two planets were formed around the same time, but evolved very differently. It goes on to explain how Venus became covered in thick clouds of sulfuric acid, which trap heat and prevent it from escaping into space. This has caused the planet to have an average temperature of 864 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt lead.
Viewers also learn about the extreme atmospheric pressure on Venus, which is 90 times greater than that of Earth. This pressure crushes anything that tries to land on the planet's surface, making it nearly impossible for us to study it up close.
Despite the inhospitable conditions on Venus, scientists have continued to study the planet from afar. The episode explores the various techniques used to study Venus, including radar imaging and spacecraft missions.
One particularly interesting aspect of Venus is its "super-rotation" - the fact that its atmosphere rotates much faster than the planet itself. This causes incredibly strong winds that whip around the planet at speeds of 200 miles per hour. The episode delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon and how it affects the planet's climate.
Finally, the episode discusses the possibility of future exploration of Venus. With new spacecraft and technology, scientists may be able to learn more about this mysterious planet and the reasons behind its unique characteristics. This exploration could shed new light on the formation of our own planet and its place in the universe.
Overall, How the Universe Works season 4, episode 2 provides a fascinating look at Venus and the science behind its unique characteristics. Viewers will come away with a greater appreciation for the vast, complex universe we live in and the ongoing efforts to uncover its secrets.
