Earth's atmosphere (approximate values)
I can describe the composition of Earth's atmosphere.
Earth's atmosphere (approximate values)
I can describe the composition of Earth's atmosphere.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The atmosphere comprises ~80% nitrogen and ~20% oxygen.
- The atmosphere contains small proportions of various other gases, including CO₂, water vapour and noble gases.
- The atmosphere thins out with height which makes it harder for humans to breathe sufficient oxygen at high altitude.
- The atmosphere contains water, mainly in its gas state but in its liquid (or solid) state in clouds and precipitation.
- The atmosphere also contains a wide range of solid particulates.
Common misconception
The atmosphere is mostly oxygen. The same atmospheric conditions exist at all heights.
Explain that the atmosphere is ~80% nitrogen and ~20% oxygen. Discuss how atmospheric conditions vary with altitude, affecting oxygen availability.
Keywords
Atmosphere - The atmosphere is a layer of gas that surrounds a planet. It may contain small amounts of solid and liquid particles.
Composition - Composition is the substances and their proportions that make something up.
Precipitation - Water in a liquid or solid state that falls towards Earth is called precipitation.
Altitude - The distance above sea level is known as altitude.
Particulates - Particulates are very small particles of solids and liquids that are suspended in air.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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