The Earth's early atmosphere
Watch this video to discover which gases were present in the Earth's early atmosphere.
Alisha Kakar explains which gases scientists think might have been present in the Earth’s early atmosphere
The Earth formed about 4.5 billion years ago. Scientists believe that its early The layers of gases that surround the Earth. The important gases in the atmosphere are nitrogen, oxygen and carbon dioxide. was produced by volcanic activity.
Composition of the early atmosphere
The early atmosphere probably contained:
- a large amount of carbon dioxide
- water vapour
- small amounts of other gases
As the Earth began to cool, water vapour Condensation is a change of state in which gas becomes liquid by cooling. formed the oceans. This process can be explained by the The scientific theory used to explain the properties of solids, liquids and gases. It involves the arrangement and movement of the particles in a substance..
Formation of the modern atmosphere
Over time:
- the oxygen levels increased
- the carbon dioxide levels decreased
More guides on this topic
- Formulae and equations - Cambridge OCR 21st Century
- Changes of state: interactive activity - Cambridge OCR 21st Century
- Energy changes in chemical reactions
- Chemical cells
- The evidence for climate change
- Improving the supply of potable water
- QUIZ: Water
- Sample exam questions - air and water - Cambridge OCR 21st Century
