List and describe four or more important functions of the atmosphere

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The atmosphere is the source of water vapor that falls as precipitation, of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, of oxygen for respiration, and of nitrogen for plant growth. It protects Earth's surface from harmful energy from the sun. Atmospheric gases like ozone, carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, and nitrous oxide absorb infrared radiation. The atmosphere allows selective passage of radiation essential for our vision and for plant processes. It keeps Earth's temperature at a level where plants, animals, and other organisms can survive and be productive. This occurs because water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide in Earth's atmosphere absorb radiation that is emitted from Earth's surface and radiate the energy back to Earth's surface. Without our atmosphere, Earth's average surface temperature would be about 10°C lower, and Earth would be uninhabitable.