C11 Earth's Atmosphere

Atmosphere

A thin layer of gases surrounding the Earth

Composition of Earth's early atmosphere

Mainly carbon dioxide; some water vapour and nitrogen; traces of methane and ammonia

Photosynthesis

Process carried out by plants and algae that removes carbon dioxide from the air and releases oxygen

Nitrogen Gas

78% of the atmosphere

Oxygen Gas

21% of the atmosphere

Minor Atmospheric Gases

Gases found in small amounts in the atmosphere (carbon dioxide, water vapour, noble gases)

Carbon Dioxide

Greenhouse gas caused by the complete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels

Carbon Monoxide

Poisonous gas produced by the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels and prevents red blood cells carrying oxygen

Sulfur Dioxide

Pollutant produced from sulfur impurities in fossil fuels and causes acid rain

Particulates

Pollutant produced by burning of diesel and causes global dimming and respiratory problems

Nitrogen Oxides

Pollutants produced by the high temperatures in hot engines causing oxygen and nitrogen in the air to react and cause respiratory problems and acid rain

Carbon Footprint

The total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life cycle of a product, service, or event

Climate Change

The change in global weather patterns caused by the excess levels of greenhouse gases

Hydrocarbon

Compounds composed of only carbon and hydrogen