* Nitrogen (N2): 78.08%
* Oxygen (O2): 20.95%
* Argon (Ar): 0.93%
* Carbon Dioxide (CO2): 0.04%
These are the major components, but there are also trace gases in much smaller amounts, such as:
* Neon (Ne)
* Helium (He)
* Methane (CH4)
* Krypton (Kr)
* Hydrogen (H2)
* Ozone (O3)
* Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
* Xenon (Xe)
* Water Vapor (H2O) - The amount varies significantly depending on location and time.
It's important to note that the composition of the atmosphere can vary depending on altitude. The lower atmosphere, called the troposphere, is where we live and contains the most water vapor. The upper atmosphere, called the stratosphere, is where the ozone layer is located.
The chemical makeup of the atmosphere is constantly changing due to natural processes like volcanic eruptions and human activities like burning fossil fuels. The concentration of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, is increasing, which is contributing to climate change.
Here's a table summarizing the major components:
| Gas | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Nitrogen (N2) | 78.08% |
| Oxygen (O2) | 20.95% |
| Argon (Ar) | 0.93% |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 0.04% |
| Other trace gases | < 0.01% |
