what is the second most abundant gas in our atmosphere
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The second most abundant gas in our atmosphere is oxygen (O₂).
Explanation:
The Earth’s atmosphere is composed of a mixture of gases, most of which are essential for life and the planet’s climate. The two most abundant gases are nitrogen and oxygen.
Nitrogen is the most abundant gas, making up approximately 78% of the atmosphere by volume. It is a relatively inert gas and does not easily react with other substances under normal conditions. This stability makes nitrogen a crucial part of the atmosphere, providing a buffer that prevents rapid combustion and helps maintain a stable environment.
Oxygen, the second most abundant gas, accounts for about 21% of the atmosphere. Oxygen is highly reactive and plays a vital role in many biological and chemical processes. It is essential for respiration in animals and humans, allowing cells to produce energy. Plants, algae, and some bacteria produce oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis, a process that converts carbon dioxide and sunlight into energy.
Although oxygen is less abundant than nitrogen, it is more chemically active. It supports combustion, which is why fires cannot burn without it. It also combines with other elements to form oxides and plays a role in the formation of the ozone layer (O₃), which protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The remaining 1% of the atmosphere is made up of argon (0.93%), carbon dioxide (around 0.04%), neon, helium, methane, krypton, hydrogen, and water vapor (which varies depending on location and climate).
In summary, oxygen is the second most abundant gas in Earth’s atmosphere and plays a crucial role in supporting life and enabling many natural processes that sustain the environment.
