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Which one of the following gases constitutes the major portion of the atmosphere?
  • a)
    Oxygen
  • b)
    Nitrogen
  • c)
    Argon
  • d)
    Carbon dioxide
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
Which one of the following gases constitutes the major portion of the ...
The major gas in the Earth's atmosphere is nitrogen (N2).

Explanation:
The Earth's atmosphere is composed of several gases, but the most abundant gas is nitrogen. Here is an explanation of why nitrogen constitutes the major portion of the atmosphere:

1. Nitrogen Composition:
- Nitrogen makes up around 78% of the Earth's atmosphere.
- It occurs in a diatomic form, meaning that two nitrogen atoms combine to form a nitrogen molecule (N2).

2. Abundance:
- Nitrogen is highly abundant due to various natural processes, such as volcanic activity, biological processes, and the decay of organic matter.
- The nitrogen cycle plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nitrogen in the atmosphere, biosphere, and other Earth systems.
- Nitrogen is also a component of many minerals and rocks, which can release nitrogen into the atmosphere through weathering processes.

3. Role in Life:
- Nitrogen is an essential element for life on Earth.
- It is a key component of proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and other vital organic molecules.
- Plants and other organisms require nitrogen to grow, and it is often a limiting nutrient in ecosystems.
- Nitrogen fixation, the process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by plants, is crucial for maintaining the nitrogen balance in ecosystems.

4. Stable and Inert:
- Nitrogen is relatively stable and inert, meaning it does not react easily with other substances.
- This stability allows it to remain in the atmosphere for long periods without being consumed or altered significantly.
- Compared to other gases like oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen is less reactive and less influenced by biological and chemical processes.

5. Role in Climate:
- While nitrogen itself does not directly contribute to climate change, it plays a role in regulating the Earth's climate system.
- Nitrogen compounds, such as nitrous oxide (N2O), can act as greenhouse gases and contribute to global warming.
- Excessive nitrogen inputs from human activities, such as the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers, can lead to environmental issues like eutrophication and air pollution.

In conclusion, nitrogen is the major component of the Earth's atmosphere due to its abundance, stability, and essential role in supporting life. Understanding the composition and dynamics of the Earth's atmosphere is crucial for studying climate change, atmospheric processes, and the interconnectedness of Earth's systems.
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Community Answer
Which one of the following gases constitutes the major portion of the ...
  • Atmosphere: The earth is surrounded by a layer of gas called the atmosphere. This thin blanket of air is an integral and important aspect of the planet.
  • Gaseous composition of the atmosphere:
    • The air in the atmosphere is a mixture of many gases like nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapours.
    • The atmosphere is composed mainly of nitrogen and oxygen
    • Nitrogen and oxygen are two gases that make up the bulk of the atmosphere.
    • Carbon dioxide, helium, ozone, argon, and hydrogen are found in lesser quantities.
    • Nitrogen is the most plentiful gas in the air. It comprises 78% of the total composition of air.
    • Oxygen holding the second position by volume constitutes 21% of the atmosphere.
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Which one of the following gases constitutes the major portion of the atmosphere?a)Oxygenb)Nitrogenc)Argond)Carbon dioxideCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
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