Composition & structure of atmosphere — Flashcards

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The atmosphere is a thick layer of gases surrounding the Earth, held in place by gravity. It acts like a blanket that protects life on Earth by blocking harmful solar radiation, regulating temperature…

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The atmosphere is vital because it provides oxygen for breathing, protects us from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation through the ozone layer, regulates temperature via the greenhouse effect, and supp…

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The main gases are: - Nitrogen (78%) - Oxygen (21%) - Argon (0.93%) - Carbon dioxide (0.04%) Other gases like neon, helium, methane, and ozone are present in trace amounts. Nitrogen and oxygen togethe…

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Permanent gases are those that remain in constant proportions in the atmosphere. Examples include nitrogen, oxygen, argon, neon, helium, hydrogen, and xenon. These gases do not easily change in concen…

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Variable gases are those whose concentrations change over time and location. Examples include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), ozone (O₃), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Huma…

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Nitrogen is essential for life because it is a key component of amino acids, which form proteins in living organisms. It also helps control combustion by diluting oxygen in the air and plays a role in…

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Oxygen is essential for respiration in most living organisms. It is used to release energy from food. Plants and animals exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide through the processes of respiration and pho…

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Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that absorbs and traps heat radiated from the Earth’s surface. This helps maintain a warm climate suitable for life. However, increased CO₂ from burning fossil fuels…