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    Chemistry of the Atmosphere

    Revision notes · Chemistry

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    Lesson step 1 of 4The Earth's Atmosphere Today

    The Earth's Atmosphere Today

    The atmosphere today is approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and about 1% other gases including argon (0.9%) and carbon dioxide (0.04%).

    This composition has been relatively stable for about 200 million years.

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    Key Terms

    Greenhouse effect
    The process by which greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, warming the Earth's surface.
    Carbon footprint
    The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted over the life cycle of a product, service, or event.
    Acid rain
    Rain made acidic by dissolved SO₂ and NOₓ; damages buildings, lakes, and vegetation.