Present Composition of the Atmosphere

The present composition of the Earth’s atmosphere primarily consists of nitrogen and oxygen, accounting for around 78% and 21% respectively. The remaining 1% is made up of various trace gases.
Argon makes up most of this remaining 1%, with carbon dioxide, neon, helium, and other trace gases making up smaller amounts.
Carbon dioxide levels, while only a small part of the atmosphere, are critical for climate regulation. Increases in CO2 due to human activity have been linked to global warming and climate change.
Water vapour is also a significant part of the atmosphere and can vary greatly depending on location, temperature, and other conditions. It plays a key role in weather patterns and cloud formation.
The atmosphere also contains particles, known as aerosols, which are tiny solid or liquid droplets. These can be naturally occurring, from sources like volcanoes, or they can be man-made, such as pollution from vehicles.
The stratospheric ozone layer, while making up a very small part of the atmosphere, is extremely important. It absorbs the majority of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The levels of gases in the atmosphere are not static and can change over time due to various factors. For example, human activity has led to increased levels of greenhouse gases, such as CO2 and methane.