Earth's Early Atmosphere Quiz

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What was the primary composition of the Earth's early atmosphere?

Equal parts oxygen and carbon monoxide

Primarily carbon dioxide with little or no oxygen (correct)

Balanced mixture of nitrogen and argon

Mainly nitrogen with high levels of oxygen

What role did volcanic activity play in shaping the early atmosphere?

It had no significant impact on atmospheric composition.

It released gases that formed the early atmosphere. (correct)

It introduced large amounts of oxygen into the atmosphere.

It reduced the levels of nitrogen significantly.

How did the increase of oxygen in the atmosphere occur?

From the breakdown of water vapor in the atmosphere.

By volcanic eruptions releasing substantial oxygen.

By photosynthesis performed by algae and plants. (correct)

Through the combustion of fossil fuels.

What chemical reaction represents the process by which algae produce oxygen?

CO₂ + H₂O + light → O₂ + C₆H₁₂O₆ (B) Signup and view all the answers

What happened to carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere over time?

They decreased due to the photosynthesis of plants. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What process reduces the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere by forming sedimentary rocks?

Formation of limestone (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a source of fossil fuels derived from decaying organic matter?

Coal (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of rock is primarily associated with carbon storage in sedimentary formations?

Limestone (D) Signup and view all the answers

What role do decaying plants and animals play in the carbon cycle?

They contribute to fossil fuel formation. (C) Signup and view all the answers

The decrease in atmospheric CO₂ levels is influenced by which of the following mechanisms?

The production of coal (B) Signup and view all the answers

What are the major components of the Earth's atmosphere?

The Earth's atmosphere is primarily composed of nitrogen (80%) and oxygen (20%) with small amounts of other gases like carbon dioxide, water vapor, and noble gases.

What was the composition of the Earth's early atmosphere?

The early Earth's atmosphere is thought to have been primarily composed of carbon dioxide with little to no oxygen, similar to the atmospheres of Mars and Venus today.

How did oxygen levels increase in the Earth's atmosphere?

Photosynthesis is the process used by plants and algae to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight.

How did carbon dioxide levels decrease in the Earth's atmosphere?

Photosynthesis by plants and algae removed carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to the decrease in its concentration.