Question

Mention the names and the uses of the various gases that make up air.

Answer 1

The atmosphere is made up of various gases. Its important constituents are nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%), with other gases constituting less than one percent. These gases are important for the survival of all forms of life. The composition of the atmosphere is as follows:

Nitrogen: Seventy-eight percent of the Earth's atmosphere is composed of nitrogen; hence, it is the most abundant gas. It is present in all living organisms and is necessary for their sustenance. It is required by plants for the production of food and for the maintenance of soil fertility.

Oxygen: Oxygen makes up twenty-one percent of the atmosphere. It is the most important gas, as it is responsible for the existence of life on the Earth. It is present in the air we breathe (O₂) and the water (H₂O) we drink.

Argon: The atmosphere has 0.9% of argon. It is used for making light bulbs.

Carbon dioxide: The atmosphere has about 0.035% of carbon dioxide. It is breathed out by many living beings through the process of respiration. Plants use it to make their food in the presence of sunlight. It also helps in maintaining optimum temperature, as it absorbs the heat radiated from the Earth's surface.

Other gases: The rest of the atmosphere comprises gases like methane, hydrogen, helium and water vapour.