Chemistry of the Atmosphere Flashcards
What is the composition of the atmosphere in the present day?
- 80% Nitrogen
- 20% Oxygen
- Small portions of carbon dioxide, water vapour and noble gases (<1%)
For how long has the composition of modern Earth’s atmosphere lasted?
200 million years approximately.
What time scale in considered the atmosphere of Early Earth?
4.6 Billion years ago
What was the composition of Early earth’s atmosphere?
It is though to be similar to venus or mars- largely carbon dioxide with little to no oxygen
What were the conditions of Early Earth?
It was very hot due to intense volcanic activity which led to nitrogen, a small amount of methane and some ammonia building up in the atmosphere.
What did Early Earth’s volcanoes facilitate?
Nitrogen produced from volcanoes could bond to form water leading to oceans,
How were oceans beneficial in altering our planet’s atmosphere?
Carbon dioxide could be dissolved into the water producing sediments and reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
How did oxygen content in Earth’s atmosphere increase?
Algae and plants formed and began to photosynthesise.
What is the equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + Water ⟶ Glucose + Oxygen
When did algae first form on Earth?
2.7 billion years ago
How did carbon dioxide in the atmosphere decrease?
- Sedimentary rocks through the ocean
- Plants via photosynthesis
Why are greenhouse gases important?
The gases help maintain a temperature on Earth which enables life.
How can humans impact the atmosphere?
Release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide or methane.
What is a major cause of climate change?
An increase in global average temperature.
List some effects of climate change:
- Flooding (rising sea level)
- Greater risk of mass movement (rock movement) from glacial melt
- Increased water stress (less fresh water)
- Drought
- Mass migration from climate or drought or simmilar
