How Were Earth’s Atmosphere and Oceans Created

 

The creation of Earth’s atmosphere is related to the creation of the oceans. Both are direct result of density stratification.

 

Origin of Earth’s Atmosphere

Earth’s initial atmosphere consisted of leftover gases from the nebula. But those particles were blown out to space by the Sun’s solar wind. Then, a second atmosphere was most likely expelled from inside Earth by a process called outgassing. During the period of density stratification, the lowest-density material contained within Earth was composed of various gases. These gases rose to the surface and were expelled to form Earth’s early atmosphere. Gases are believed to have been similar to the gases emitted from volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs today: mostly water vapor (steam), with small amount of CO2, Hydrogen, and other gases. The composition of the atmosphere changed over time because of the influence of life.

 

Origin of Earth’s Oceans

Origin of oceans directly linked to the origin of the atmosphere. As Earth cooled, the water vapor released to the atmosphere during outgassing condensed and fell to Earth. Evidence suggests that by at least 4 billion years ago, most of the water vapor from outgassing had accumulated to form the first permanent oceans on Earth. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Black Pond Turtle: A Fascinating Aquatic Reptile

Image
  Introduction The  Black Pond Turtle  ( Siebenrockiella crassicollis ), also known as the  Black Marsh Turtle , is a unique and lesser-known species of freshwater turtle native to Southeast Asia. With its dark, almost black shell and secretive nature, this turtle has captivated reptile enthusiasts and conservationists alike. In this article, we’ll explore its habitat, behavior, diet, conservation status, and some interesting facts about this remarkable species. Physical Characteristics Shell:  The Black Pond Turtle has a smooth, dark brown to black carapace (upper shell) that can grow up to  20 cm (8 inches)  in length. Head & Limbs:  Its head is broad with a slightly hooked upper jaw, and its limbs are dark with webbed feet for swimming. Distinctive Markings:  Some individuals may have faint yellow or cream markings around the head and neck. Habitat & Distribution This species is found in slow-moving freshwater habitats, including: ...
Read more
Image
  The Science of Marine Biology Marine biology is the scientific study of the organisms that live in the sea. The ocean is a vast realm, home to countless strange and wonderful creatures. It is often the beauty, mystery, and variety of life in the sea that attract students to a course in marine biology. Even professional marine biologists feel a sense of adventure and wonder in their studies. There are also many practical reasons to study marine biology. Life on earth probably originated in the sea, so the study of marine organisms teaches us much about all life on earth, not just marine life. In the late nineteenth century, for example, the Russian scientist Ilya Metchnikoff discovered cells of the animal immune system by studying sea anemones and the larvae of sea stars. His discovery underpins a great deal of modern medical research. Marine life also represents a vast source of human wealth. It provides food, medicines, and raw materials; offers recreation to millions; and s...
Read more

Chemical and Physical Features of Seawater and the World Ocean

Image
  Matter is defined as anything that has mass and takes up space. So, everything you have ever seen or touched on earth is matter (including you!) All matter is composed of elements of different types. Each of the elements naturally occurs as small units known as atoms. Atoms can be found solo (such as atoms of helium) or atoms can bound to other atoms in molecules. Molecules are the result of two or more atoms bonded chemically. One molecule that everyone on the planet has encountered is H20. You should recognize this as a chemical description of water. In the water molecule, there are two atoms of hydrogen and one atom of oxygen bonded chemically together. Unique Nature of Water Water molecules are unique in many ways. First of all, each water molecule has slight positive and negative electrical charges. The positive charges are near the hydrogen atoms and the negative charges exist around the oxygen atom. Due to these slight electrical charges, water molecules are attracted to o...
Read more