Major Components:
* Nitrogen (N2): Makes up about 78% of the atmosphere. It's inert and plays a key role in biological processes.
* Oxygen (O2): Accounts for about 21% of the atmosphere. Essential for respiration and combustion.
* Argon (Ar): Makes up about 0.93% of the atmosphere. An inert gas.
Minor Components:
* Carbon dioxide (CO2): Present in trace amounts (about 0.04%) but plays a critical role in the greenhouse effect.
* Neon (Ne): Present in trace amounts.
* Helium (He): Present in trace amounts.
* Methane (CH4): A potent greenhouse gas present in trace amounts.
* Krypton (Kr): Present in trace amounts.
* Hydrogen (H2): Present in trace amounts.
* Ozone (O3): A layer in the stratosphere that absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Variable Components:
* Water vapor (H2O): The amount of water vapor in the air varies greatly depending on location and weather conditions. It's essential for precipitation.
* Aerosols: Tiny particles of solid or liquid matter suspended in the air, including dust, pollen, sea salt, smoke, and volcanic ash. They play a role in cloud formation and climate.
Trace Gases:
Many other gases are present in the atmosphere in very small amounts, including:
* Nitrous oxide (N2O): A greenhouse gas.
* Sulfur dioxide (SO2): A pollutant that can contribute to acid rain.
* Carbon monoxide (CO): A toxic gas produced by combustion.
Note: The composition of the Earth's atmosphere can vary slightly depending on altitude, location, and other factors.
