Learn about the composition of air, the layers of the atmosphere, and the importance of maintaining clean air.
Air is a mixture of gases: about 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and small amounts of carbon dioxide, argon, and other gases.
Which gas makes up the largest percentage of air?
Nitrogen, about 78%
Why is oxygen important in air even though it's a smaller percentage than nitrogen?
Oxygen is essential for respiration in living things and for combustion, even though it makes up only about 21% of air
Air pollution occurs when harmful substances like smoke, dust, and gases from vehicles and factories contaminate the air.
Name one cause of air pollution.
Vehicle exhaust, factory smoke, or burning of fossil fuels
Why is air pollution harmful to health?
It can cause respiratory problems, and pollutants can damage the lungs and other organs over time
1. What percentage of air is nitrogen (approximately)?
2. What percentage of air is oxygen (approximately)?
3. Name one gas found in air besides nitrogen and oxygen.
4. Name one cause of air pollution.
5. Why is clean air important for living things?