Breathing Easy: Unveiling the Secrets of Our Atmosphere

A Gentle Blanket

As we know, the Earth is surrounded by a layer of air stretching 560 kilometers, composed primarily of various gases—78% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, and 2% other gases. We call this layer the atmosphere.

The atmosphere, comprised of gases, should theoretically escape into space. However, gravity keeps it anchored around Earth, providing us with breathable air. The atmosphere acts as a kind of blanket, filtering the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays and ensuring that sunlight warms the Earth gently and suitably for life. Without this 'blanket,' Earth would become a scorching desert. The atmosphere consists of four layers: the troposphere, where we live, ranges from 8 to 16 kilometers and is where most weather phenomena occur—rain, snow, hail, clouds, and more. It's fascinating that the gas composition in this layer is perfectly suited to sustaining life!

The Balance of Ozone

A thin protective layer encircles the Earth: the ozone layer, part of the atmosphere. The ozone layer is not uniform but fluctuates, constantly forming and breaking down. Though it may seem worrying that ozone is destroyed, it's reassuring to know that oxygen atoms quickly bind to form new ozone molecules ready to continue protecting us from more ultraviolet radiation. This balance is maintained in line with the needs of life on Earth.

Where Did the Gas Go?

For many years, ozone levels remained stable until recent technological and industrial advances led to dramatic human impacts. In the early 1970s, scientists believed that high-altitude flights posed the only threat to the ozone layer due to the gases emitted by aircraft engines. However, it quickly became apparent that major ozone damage stemmed elsewhere.

In 1980, the British meteorological station reported a sharp decline in ozone concentrations over Antarctica, a 40% reduction during September and November compared to regular levels. Years of research revealed the culprits—“freons.” These chlorine and fluorine compounds were invented for refrigeration and have stable, non-toxic properties, making them widespread in refrigerators and air conditioners.

When these freons escape into the atmosphere, they break down under extreme conditions like those in the polar regions, releasing chlorine and fluorine that rapidly destroy ozone. Efforts are underway globally to restore ozone levels to their former state.

Breathing Easy

Oxygen comprises about 20% of the air, with 78% nitrogen and 2% other gases. Ancient people worried about running out of oxygen, but the secret lies in the marvelous mutual cycle between plants needing carbon dioxide and animals requiring oxygen. Plants take in carbon dioxide released by animals and, in turn, emit oxygen—a perfect balance.

The Balance is Maintained!

Maintaining this balance requires constant monitoring. Natural factors like human population growth and increased plant life could disrupt this balance, potentially leading to catastrophic increases in oxygen levels, causing massive fires, or reductions causing breathing difficulties. The Creator ensures this delicate balance remains constant, safeguarding life on Earth.

Heavy Air

Take a deep breath – you’ve just filled your lungs with about 4 liters of air. Understanding air's properties led to innovations like airplanes and submarines. Air, with its weight and properties, allows for these technological marvels. The atmospheric pressure we live under is matched perfectly by the internal pressure within our bodies, maintaining balance.