Nitrogen, Oxygen, Neon and Argon

Structure of the Earth

The earth is divided into three main sections: the crust, the mantle, and the core.
The crust ranges from 5-70km in depth and is where we live.
The mantle is semi-fluid and extends from the bottom of the crust to around 3000km below the surface.
The core is divided into two sections: the outer liquid core and the inner solid core.

Plate Tectonics

The Earth’s crust and upper mantle are broken up into different plates.
These tectonic plates move on the semi-fluid upper mantle underneath them, which is called asthenosphere.
Plate tectonic movement is responsible for earth’s geographical features like mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

Plate Boundaries

Plates interact at their edges or boundaries which are of three types - convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.
Convergent boundaries result in the formation of mountains or deep sea trenches.
Divergent boundaries can form mid-ocean ridges.
Transform boundaries cause earthquakes.

Formation of the Original Atmosphere by Gases

The original atmosphere of the earth was formed over billions of years.
It was mainly composed of volcanic gases like water vapour, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide with little oxygen.
Over time, the composition of the atmosphere changed through processes like photosynthesis, which increased the oxygen content.

Present Composition of the Atmosphere

The present-day atmosphere is about 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, with small amounts of argon, carbon dioxide, and other gases.
Water vapour varies in quantity but is usually 1% or less.

Roles of Respiration, Combustion and Photosynthesis

Respiration, combustion, and photosynthesis play key roles in maintaining the composition of the atmosphere.
Photosynthesis by plants reduces the carbon dioxide level by converting it to oxygen.
Animals produce carbon dioxide during respiration which is then used by plants in photosynthesis.
Combustion of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Carbon Dioxide and Sulfur Dioxide Emission Consequences

The emission of gases like carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide has repercussions on our environment.
Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.
Sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere can lead to acid rain that harms living organisms and infrastructure.

Addressing Global Warming and Acid Rain

Reducing the emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide can help mitigate global warming.
Limiting the use of fuels that give off sulfur dioxide can address the issue of acid rain.
Other strategies include promoting alternative energy sources and employing carbon capture and storage technology.

About Nitrogen, Oxygen, Neon, and Argon

Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere, vital for the formation of proteins in living organisms.
Oxygen, the second most abundant gas, is essential for respiration in animals.
Neon is a noble gas present in minute amounts in the atmosphere.
Argon is another noble gas and is used in various industrial applications due to its inert properties.