Which planet has an atmosphere dominated by nitrogen and oxygen with trace gases?

Which planet has an atmosphere dominated by nitrogen and oxygen with trace gases?

• A. Mars
• B. Venus
• C. Earth
• D. Jupiter

Answer: (C)

Atmospheric composition varies among planets, and the air we breathe is primarily nitrogen and oxygen, with smaller amounts of other gases. Earth has an atmosphere that is about 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, with trace amounts of argon, carbon dioxide, neon, helium, methane, and water vapor. This specific mix is not found on the other planets listed: Mars has a thin atmosphere dominated by carbon dioxide; Venus has a very thick carbon dioxide atmosphere with extremely high surface pressure; Jupiter’s atmosphere is mainly hydrogen and helium. The nitrogen–oxygen composition of Earth is what sets its air apart and supports the life-friendly environment we experience.

Atmospheric composition varies among planets, and the air we breathe is primarily nitrogen and oxygen, with smaller amounts of other gases. Earth has an atmosphere that is about 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, with trace amounts of argon, carbon dioxide, neon, helium, methane, and water vapor. This specific mix is not found on the other planets listed: Mars has a thin atmosphere dominated by carbon dioxide; Venus has a very thick carbon dioxide atmosphere with extremely high surface pressure; Jupiter’s atmosphere is mainly hydrogen and helium. The nitrogen–oxygen composition of Earth is what sets its air apart and supports the life-friendly environment we experience.