The Earth’s atmosphere is a layer of gases surrounding the Earth. The atmosphere absorbs solar radiations warming the surface by retaining heat. The composition of the atmosphere is very important for life to sustain on the Earth.
The atmosphere consists of Nitrogen (78%), Oxygen (21%), Water (4%), Argon (0.93%), Carbon Dioxide (0.039%), Neon (0.0018%), Helium (0.0005%), Methane (0.00018%), Hydrogen (0.00005%), Nitrous Oxide (0.00003%) and Ozone (0.000004%). Some traces of Krypton, Xenon and Radone are also found in the atmosphere.
Carbon dioxide
It is a colorless and odorless heavy gas. It is produced by burning of fuels, wood and other material containing carbon molecules; breathing; oxidation processes and decomposition in ocean. Carbon dioxide is an essential gas for life to sustain on earth.
Methane
This gas not very abundant in atmosphere. It is a very strong greenhouse gas. The primary sources of methane are rice cultivation; domestic grazing animals; termites; landfills; coal mining; and, oil and gas extraction.
Water
Water vapors are present below 20,000 feet. Oceans, lakes, rivers and plants are major sources of water vapors. Present of water vapor affects the weather dramatically. Change in state of water vapor produces clouds, fog and rain.
Ozone
It is formed by ultra violet rays in the upper levels of stratosphere and lower levels of mesosphere. It is made of three oxygen atoms (03). The amount of ozone depends on weather, solar radiations and human activities.
Solid particles
The atmosphere also has traces of solid particles in the form of dust, sand, ashes and soot. These particles affect the temperature by blocking the radiation contributing to condensation process.
Nitrous Oxide
It has important role in the artificial fertilization of ecosystems. Sources for the increase of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere include: land-use conversion; fossil fuel combustion; biomass burning; and soil fertilization.
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