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Questions and Answers
Which gas has a volumetric percentage of only 0.036% in the Earth's atmosphere?
What is the most abundant gas in the Earth's atmosphere?
At what altitude do heavier gases like nitrogen and oxygen become less concentrated?
Which of the following gases is found in the smallest quantity in the atmosphere?
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What role does the atmosphere play in protecting Earth?
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Which gas is NOT considered one of the major components of Earth's atmosphere?
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Why is the Earth's atmosphere considered unique among the planets in our solar system?
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Which of the following is NOT a function of the atmosphere?
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Which gases find predominance at altitudes higher than 100 km?
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Study Notes
Overview of the Atmosphere
- The atmosphere is a gas layer enveloping Earth, extending up to 10,000 km above the surface.
- Gravity is the force that retains the atmosphere around the planet.
Composition of the Atmosphere
- Major components include:
- Nitrogen (N2) at 78.08%
- Oxygen (O2) at 20.94%
- Argon (Ar) at 0.93%
- Trace gases consist of carbon dioxide (CO2) at 0.036%, neon, helium, methane, krypton, hydrogen, ozone, and xenon (totaling approximately 0.014%).
Structure of the Atmosphere
- Gas concentration varies with altitude:
- Heavier gases dominate up to 80-100 km above the surface.
- Higher altitudes feature lighter gases like helium and hydrogen.
- The lower atmospheric layers contain significant amounts of water vapor and dust.
Importance of the Atmosphere
- Crucial for sustaining life by:
- Maintaining a livable temperature range.
- Shielding Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
- Facilitating weather patterns and climate systems.
- Essential for rainfall and fostering the growth of flora and fauna.
Earth’s Unique Atmospheric Composition
- The specific mix of gases in Earth's atmosphere distinguishes it from those of other planets within our solar system.
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Description
This quiz covers key concepts related to the Earth's atmosphere. It explores its composition, including the major gases present and their volumetric percentages. Test your understanding of the atmosphere's significance and characteristics.
