CramX Logo

Q
QuestionChemistry

What is the most abundant element in Earth's atmosphere? A. Oxygen B. Aluminum C. Iron D. Nitrogen E. Argon
12 months agoReport content

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.

Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step:

Step 2:
: Analyze the Composition of Earth's Atmosphere

To determine the most abundant element, I'll recall the primary components of Earth's atmospheric composition.

Step 3:
: Breakdown of Atmospheric Composition

The atmosphere is primarily composed of: - Nitrogen: approximately 78% - Oxygen: approximately 21% - Argon: approximately 0.93% - Other trace gases: less than 1%

Step 4:
: Identify the Most Abundant Element

By percentage, $$78\%$$ of the atmosphere is nitrogen, which is significantly higher than any other single element.

Step 5:
: Eliminate Other Options

- Oxygen: Second most abundant at $$21\%
- Aluminum: Not a primary atmospheric component - Iron: Not present in significant atmospheric quantities - Argon: Present, but only in trace amounts (less than 1%)

Final Answer

Nitrogen The most abundant element in Earth's atmosphere is nitrogen, comprising approximately 78\% of the total atmospheric composition.