Question
Final Explanation
Dr. Flores would like an update on your research about what happened to the lake on Titan. Did
the lake on Titan evaporate or freeze? After you clearly state your claim, explain how the evidence
connects to the claim to support your argument. Remember to explain what happened at both the
macro and molecular scale.
Answer
The lake on Titan likely did not evaporate or freeze. Evidence from the Cassini spacecraft's radar measurements and spectral analysis of the lake's composition suggest that it is likely composed of liquid hydrocarbons, specifically ethane and methane. The temperature on Titan's surface is extremely cold, around -290 degrees Fahrenheit, which is below the freezing point of water and most other liquids. However, ethane and methane have much lower freezing points, around -297 and -296 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. Therefore, it is more likely that the lake remains in a liquid state due to the presence of these hydrocarbons. Additionally, there is no evidence of significant changes in the lake's size or composition over time, further supporting the idea that it remains in a liquid state.