Chemistry of the Atmosphere Exam Questions
Questions on the composition of the atmosphere, evolution of Earths atmosphere, greenhouse gases, climate change, carbon footprint, and atmospheric pollutants. Download free past paper questions organised by topic with mark schemes.
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What is the composition of the atmosphere GCSE?
Current atmosphere: approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, about 1% argon, and 0.04% carbon dioxide. Plus small amounts of water vapour and other gases.
How did Earths atmosphere evolve?
Early atmosphere: mainly CO₂ and water vapour from volcanoes. Oceans formed as water vapour condensed. Photosynthesis by plants/algae added oxygen and removed CO₂. Fossil fuels and sedimentary rocks locked away carbon.
What is the greenhouse effect GCSE?
Greenhouse gases (CO₂, methane, water vapour) absorb infrared radiation from Earth and re-emit it, keeping Earth warm. Increased greenhouse gases lead to global warming and climate change.
What atmospheric pollutants are in GCSE Chemistry?
Carbon monoxide (toxic), sulfur dioxide (acid rain), nitrogen oxides (acid rain, smog), and particulates (breathing problems, global dimming). These come from burning fossil fuels.
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