Environmental Chemistry : Atmosphere and Gases.

 

What is Atmosphere ?

The atmosphere is a vital component of our planet, acting as a protective shield. It is a mixture of gases that surrounds earth, playing a crucial role in maintaining  temperature, and supporting all living organisms.

Composition of the Atmosphere

The Earth's atmosphere is composed of various gases, with the following being the most prominent:

Nitrogen (N2)  - 78% : The most abundant gas, nitrogen is essential for plant growth and forms a key component of proteins and DND .

Oxygen (O2) - 21% : Vital for respiration in most living organisms and crucial for combustion .

Carbon-di-oxide (Co2) -0.04% : Essential for photosynthesis in plants and plays a major role in regulating Earth's temperature.

Argon (Ar) - 0.93% :  A noble gas with no significant biological role but used in industrial application 

Other Gases : Trace gases such as Neon, Helium, Methane, Krypton, and Hydrogen exist in small amounts but have significant effects on climate and industry.

Water Vapor (H2O)  : Its presence varies depending on location and altitude, contributing to cloud formation and precipitation. 

Layers of the Atmosphere

The atmosphere is divided into five distinct layers, each with unique characteristics and function.

1. Troposphere (0-12 km)

The lowest  layer, where all weather phenomena occur .

Contains about 75% of the atmosphere's mass and nearly all water vapor .

Temperature decreases with altitude.

2. Stratosphere (12- 50km)

Contains the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful UV radiation .

 Temperature increases with altitude due to ozone absorption of solar energy.

 Home to jet streams, which influence weather patterns.

3.   Mesosphere (50 -85 km)

The coldest layer, where meteors burn upon entry, creating shooting stars.

     

Temperature decreases with altitude.

4.   Thermosphere ( 85 -600 km )

Contains the Ionosphere, which reflects radio waves and aids in communication .

       

Temperatures can reach thousands of degrees due to solar radiation absorption.

       

Home to the auroras (Northern and Southern Light ).

5.  Exosphere (600 km and beyond ) 

The outermost layer, gradually transitioning into space.

 Contains very few molecules, mainly hydrogen and helium.

 Satellites orbit in this region.

Importance of Atmospheric Gases 
       

The gases in the atmosphere perform several essential function, including :

Supporting Life :  Oxygen is crucial for respiration, while carbon dioxide is essential for                                                        Photosynthesis.

Regulating climate : Greenhouse Gases like CO2, methane, and water vapor help retain, making earth                                      habitable.

         

Weather and water cycle :  Atmospheric water vapor drives precipitation, cloud formation, and                                                             weather changes.

Protecting From Radiation : The ozone layer absorbs harmful UV rays,  preventing excessive   

                                                   exposure. 

Communication and Navigation : The Ionosphere aids in radio signal transmission and GPS                                                                         functionality.

Note : sustainable practices, reducing emissions, and promoting conversation are maintain the balance of Earth's atmosphere. 

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