Question

What is the composition of the Earth’s atmosphere?

Answer 1

The composition of the Earth's atmosphere is as follows:

• Approximately 78% nitrogen
• Approximately 21% oxygen
• The remaining 1% consists of other gases, including carbon dioxide, water vapor, helium, hydrogen, and argon.

In addition to gases, the atmosphere also contains tiny solid particles such as pollen, dust, ash, smoke, and salt particles from the seas.

Nitrogen is an inert gas that dilutes oxygen and slows down oxidation processes. Oxygen is essential for burning and breathing. Carbon dioxide is necessary for plants, and water vapor is responsible for precipitation and the circulation of fresh water.

This mixture forms a “blanket of air” surrounding the Earth, held close by gravity, with about half of the total mass of air found below 5 km altitude. The atmosphere protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays, helps retain necessary warmth, and supports life-sustaining gases.