A volcano is an opening on the surface of a planet or moon through which molten rock, rock fragments and gases erupt.

Sedimentary rocks are a type of rock formed from the compression of sediments (rock fragments, minerals and remains of dead plants and animals).

The process of photosynthesis is where energy from sunlight is used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Algae are a diverse range of unicellular or multicellular photosynthetic organisms. Many algae are aquatic.

Some types of algae belong to a group of microscopic marine photosynthetic organisms called phytoplankton.

Evolution of Earth's atmosphere

Combined science

In the Industrial chemistry unit, pupils will learn about chemical, industrial, environmental and economic factors of some large-scale chemical processes.

In the Carbon Cycle and Climate Change unit, pupils learned about the carbon cycle, the formation of sedimentary rocks, and the impact of burning fossil fuels.

Atmosphere and changing climate

Which of the following released gases forming Earth's early atmosphere?

What is the name of the process which uses energy from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen?

Which was the most abundant gas in the early atmosphere?

Algae evolving led to increased levels of which gas in the atmosphere?

Volcanic activity released water vapour into the atmosphere.

As the surface temperature reached 100℃ water vapour condensed.

Liquid water fell to Earth forming the oceans.

Put the statements into the correct order to describe how the oceans formed.

carbon being 'locked up' in sedimentary rocks and fossil fuels

Which of the following led to decreased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Earth's atmosphere comprises approximately 21% of which gas?

What is the percentage of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere?

The atmosphere on Earth has been in roughly the same proportions for how many million years? 

What name is given to the layer of gas that surrounds a planet?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Evolution of Earth's atmosphere

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.