Which one of the following gases is found in highest quantity in Exosp...
The exosphere is the uppermost region of Earth's atmosphere as it gradually fades into the vacuum of space. It starts at an altitude of about 500 km and goes out to about 10,000 km. The most abundantly found gas in exosphere is hydrogen with some helium, carbon dioxide, and atomic oxygen near its base.
Which one of the following gases is found in highest quantity in Exosp...
Exosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere, extending from about 500 kilometers (310 miles) above the Earth's surface to the edge of space. It is the least dense and the highest layer of the atmosphere. In this layer, the gases are very spread out and the particles are far apart from each other.
The Exosphere primarily consists of very light gases, such as hydrogen and helium. These gases are found in higher quantities compared to heavier gases like nitrogen and oxygen. Let's understand why hydrogen is found in the highest quantity in the Exosphere.
1. **Hydrogen**:
- Hydrogen is the lightest element and has the lowest atomic mass. It is composed of a single proton and electron, making it extremely light.
- Being the lightest gas, hydrogen has a tendency to rise to the top of the atmosphere due to its low density.
- In the Exosphere, the escape velocity of Earth's gravity is lower than the average thermal velocity of hydrogen molecules. Therefore, some hydrogen molecules can reach escape velocity and escape into space.
- Over time, this process of hydrogen escaping into space has led to a higher concentration of hydrogen in the Exosphere compared to other gases.
2. **Helium**:
- Helium is the second lightest element after hydrogen and also has a low density.
- It is also found in relatively high quantities in the Exosphere. However, hydrogen is found in a slightly higher quantity than helium.
3. **Nitrogen and Oxygen**:
- Nitrogen and oxygen are the primary components of Earth's lower atmosphere, including the troposphere and stratosphere.
- These gases are heavier compared to hydrogen and helium and have a lower tendency to reach the Exosphere.
- While there might be some traces of nitrogen and oxygen in the Exosphere, their quantities are significantly lower compared to hydrogen and helium.
In conclusion, hydrogen is found in the highest quantity in the Exosphere due to its low density, which allows it to rise to the top of the atmosphere and escape into space. Helium is also present in relatively high quantities, but hydrogen is the most abundant gas in this outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 5 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 5.