* Nitrogen (N2): Makes up about 78% of the atmosphere. It is relatively inert and plays a vital role in maintaining life.
* Oxygen (O2): Makes up about 21% of the atmosphere. It is essential for respiration and many other biological processes.
* Argon (Ar): Makes up about 0.93% of the atmosphere. It is an inert gas with little biological significance.
* Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Makes up a small but important fraction (around 0.04%) of the atmosphere. It is a greenhouse gas that traps heat and plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature.
Other Gases in Smaller Amounts:
* Neon (Ne)
* Helium (He)
* Methane (CH4)
* Krypton (Kr)
* Hydrogen (H2)
* Ozone (O3)
* Xenon (Xe)
* Water Vapor (H2O)
* Aerosols (tiny particles like dust, smoke, and sea salt)
Note: The composition of the atmosphere can vary slightly depending on location, altitude, and other factors.