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The Geologic History of Mars

Mars has a complex geological history that reveals its transformation over billions of years. Once, it had flowing water, a thicker atmosphere, and possibly conditions suitable for life. Volcanoes shaped its landscape, creating massive features like Olympus Mons, the largest volcano in the solar system. Over time, geological processes like erosion and impact cratering altered its surface, leading to the dry, cold planet we see today. Evidence suggests that Mars experienced significant climate changes, including a transition from a wetter environment to the arid conditions present now, leaving scientists to explore its potential for past life.