Reyes, Mikaella Jane T.

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ACTIVITY NO.5
Earth's Atmosphere
Reaction Paper

The Earth's atmosphere is a complex and vital part of our planet, serving as a protective shield
that surrounds and supports life on Earth. The intricate structure of the atmosphere and its several
significant roles in our world astounded me as I learned more about it.

One of the most surprising things I learned was the composition of the atmosphere. I was aware
that air was mostly composed of nitrogen and oxygen, but I was unaware that it also contained traces of
other gases, like carbon dioxide and water vapor. These gases are essential to understanding how the
climate of the Earth works, with water vapor serving as a key source of humidity and carbon dioxide
working as a greenhouse gas that helps to trap heat.

I was also fascinated by the structure of the atmosphere, which is divided into several layers
withnique characteristics. We live in the troposphere, which is the part of the atmosphere closest to the
planet's surface and where the weather happens. The stratosphere is located above the troposphere and has
an ozone layer that shields us from UV radiation. Further up is the mesosphere, where meteors burn up
upon entering the Earth's atmosphere, and the thermosphere, which is home to the auroras.

As I learned about the functions of the atmosphere, I was struck by how essential it is for life on
Earth.  It gives us the air we breathe, contributes to maintaining the planet's temperature, and shields us
from dangerous sun radiation. It also contributes significantly to the global climate by assisting in the
distribution of heat and moisture around the globe.

However, I also learned about today's many challenges and issues facing the Earth's
atmosphere. The increase in greenhouse gases is generating climate change, which is raising the Earth's
temperature and increasing the frequency of extreme weather occurrences. When dangerous compounds
are released into the atmosphere, air pollution results, endangering both human and animal health.
Additionally, the ecosystem and human health may suffer due to the ozone layer being destroyed by
chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons released into the atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Earth's atmosphere is an intricate and vital part of our planet, playing many
important roles in supporting life and regulating the global climate. However, there are a number of
difficulties and problems that must be resolved if it is to remain healthy and safe. For the sake of the
planet and its people, it is crucial to comprehend the complexity and significance of the Earth's
atmosphere.