How did the atmosphere evolve into its present composition?
Rates of chemical weathering increased and carbon dioxide (CO2) was taken from the atmosphere. Because CO2 is an important greenhouse gas, climates cooled globally. Carbon dioxide escaped through volcanic out-gassing which raised global temperatures.
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About Carbon Dioxide
Carbon dioxide is a chemical compound composed of two oxygen atoms bonded to a single carbon atom. CO2 is increasing due to the burning of fossil fuels, leading to global warming. Carbon dioxide is often confused with carbon monoxide.
About Greenhouse Gas
Greenhouse gasses are gasses that trap heat and infrared radiation in the atmosphere. On Earth they include water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide and ozone. Even with the level of greenhouse gasses in our atmosphere rising, at least we don't look like Venus with temperatures in the 400 - 800 degree Fahrenheit range.
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