Composition and Importance of Air

• Air is all around us and, although invisible, its movement is felt.
• Air consists of various components and air pollution leads to many health problems.
• Taking possible steps to check air pollution is essential.

Composition of Air

• Water turns into vapor, a gaseous form, when heated, mixing with the air.
• Air is composed of gases and dust particles.
• The main gases in the air consist of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.
• Air is mainly composed of nitrogen followed by oxygen.
• Carbon dioxide, other gases, and water vapor make up the smallest part of air.
• Air also contains small living organisms called germs, as well as dust particles.
• Nitrogen makes up 78%
• Oxygen makes up 21%
• Carbon Dioxide makes up 1%

Importance of Air

• All animals, birds, and insects need air to live.
• All living things breathe in air.
• Plants need air to cook food and grow seeds.
• Animals and humans need air to breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.
• Plants take in the carbon dioxide released by animals and humans to prepare food.
• Nitrogen is released when plants and animals die and decay which helps plants grow.
• Tires of vehicles need to be inflated with air.
• Moving air is called wind which dries clothes and helps kites fly.
• Wind also helps sailboats, windmills, and gliders move.
• Air helps clouds move.
• Oxygen present in the air supports burning.
• Air helps in warming and cooling things.

Properties of Air

• Air occupies space.
• Air contains water vapor.
• Air moves and carries fragrance.
• Air has weight.

Keeping Air Clean

• Clean air is needed to breathe and stay healthy.
• Smoke and poisonous gases from vehicles and factories pollute the air.
• Burning waste in the open releases harmful gases into the air.
• Breathing polluted air can lead to headaches, irritations, and redness of the eyes and may damage the lungs.
• Plants help purify the air.
• Walking short distances or using a bicycle reduces air pollution unlike vehicles.
• Carpooling can reduce air pollution when traveling to offices.
• Parents should get pollution checks done on vehicles.
• Throwing garbage in dustbins instead of burning it can reduce air pollution since burning garbage releases harmful gases.
• Burning wood should be avoided as it releases smoke.

Glossary

• Components: Parts of something.
• Organism: Any living thing.
• Carpool: Sharing the same vehicle to travel to the same place.