{"id":424991,"date":"2024-02-02T08:05:07","date_gmt":"2024-02-02T06:05:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osr.org\/?p=424991"},"modified":"2024-02-02T08:05:26","modified_gmt":"2024-02-02T06:05:26","slug":"what-is-earths-atmosphere-made-of","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/osr.org\/en-uk\/blog\/osrguide\/what-is-earths-atmosphere-made-of\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Earth’s Atmosphere Made Of?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Our atmosphere does everything, from dictating our weather and climate to impacting communication waves. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about our gassy life-giver, including examining the composition of Earth’s atmosphere, dissecting its layers, and exploring humanity’s impact on it.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Is Earth’s Atmosphere?<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Composition<\/p>\n

The Earth\u2019s atmosphere is an essential layer of gases enveloping our planet, playing a critical role in sustaining life and influencing our planet’s climate. It serves as a protective blanket, shielding us from harmful solar radiation, keeping our planet warm, and providing the oxygen we need to breathe. Indeed, without it, Earth would be uninhabitable, much like the barren landscapes of the Moon<\/a> or Mars<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The atmosphere comprises multiple layers, each with unique characteristics and purposes. These layers are primarily defined by the different gases they contain, which also play a significant role in maintaining the balance that keeps Earth habitable.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Is Earth’s Atmosphere Made Of?<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Chemical<\/p>\n

The Earth’s atmosphere is mainly composed of nitrogen (N2), accounting for approximately 78% of its volume. This abundance of nitrogen is vital for supporting life<\/a>, as it is a fundamental component of amino acids and proteins \u2013 the essential building blocks of living organisms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Following nitrogen, oxygen (O2) is the second most prevalent gas, comprising about 21% of the atmosphere. Oxygen plays a critical role in sustaining life by facilitating respiration, essential for generating energy in most organisms.<\/span><\/p>\n

The remaining 1% is made up of various other gases, such as argon (Ar), carbon dioxide (CO2), neon (Ne), helium (He), and methane (CH4). Additionally, trace amounts of water vapour (H2O) can be found within the atmosphere, further contributing to its chemical composition.<\/span><\/p>\n

The intricate combination of these gases creates a dynamic and balanced atmosphere, supporting the diverse ecosystems and life forms that thrive on our planet.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What Are the Layers of Earth’s Atmosphere?<\/span><\/h2>\n
https:\/\/youtu.be\/KXf39bQH6iE?si=GSRx0py5bh0GY18t<\/a>