Why does mars have polar ice caps?

Answer 1

"clouds of dry ice (frozen CO2) and water ice crystals (H2O) drift through the martian atmosphere carried by the martian winds."

OK, no offense meant but this above quoted answer doesn't even come close...I am still researching this (I'm an MD interested in alternative science). The short answer is that outside-the-box theorist and free thinkers tend to say YES..there are now publicly available photos showing what clearly looks like snow/ice covered caps at the poles. (see work of astronomer Tom Van Flandern). Mainstream acknowledged info (ie. NASA sanctioned) now leans toward the idea the water ONCE existed on Mars but claims that water is now completely gone from the Mar's surface- leaving those compelling pole photos entirely unaddressed. PLEASE, keep critically thinking for yourselves. Investigate.