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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the most abundant gas by volume in Earth's atmosphere?
A
Ar (argon)
B
CO_2 (carbon dioxide)
C
O_2 (oxygen)
D
N_2 (nitrogen)
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that Earth's atmosphere is composed of several gases, each present in different proportions by volume.
Recall the major components of dry air and their approximate volume percentages: Nitrogen (N_2) about 78%, Oxygen (O_2) about 21%, Argon (Ar) about 0.93%, and Carbon dioxide (CO_2) about 0.04%.
Compare the given options (Ar, CO_2, O_2) with nitrogen (N_2) in terms of their volume percentages in the atmosphere.
Recognize that nitrogen (N_2) has the highest volume percentage among these gases, making it the most abundant gas by volume in Earth's atmosphere.
Conclude that the correct answer is nitrogen (N_2) based on its dominant volume fraction compared to the other gases listed.