Describe the composition of the Earth s atmosph... - SS2 Chemistry Environmental Chemistry: Atmosphere and Water Question

The Earth's atmosphere is primarily composed of nitrogen (about 78%) and oxygen (about 21%), with trace amounts of other gases, including argon, carbon dioxide, and water vapour. These major components play crucial roles in supporting life on Earth. Oxygen is essential for respiration, allowing living organisms to extract energy from food. Nitrogen is important for the synthesis of proteins and other organic compounds.

Human activity significantly impacts the composition of the atmosphere. The burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the air, leading to an increase in global temperatures and climate change. Deforestation reduces the number of trees that absorb carbon dioxide, exacerbating the greenhouse effect. Additionally, industrial processes release pollutants, such as sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can lead to acid rain and smog, affecting both human health and the environment.