How Does Earth's Atmosphere Protect Life?

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Detailed Solution

Earth's atmosphere serves as a shield that protects life by filtering harmful solar radiation, regulating temperatures, and maintaining conditions conducive to life.

Protection from Harmful Radiation

Earth's atmosphere contains the ozone layer, which absorbs the majority of the Sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Without the ozone layer, life on Earth would be exposed to harmful UV rays, which can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer.

Temperature Regulation

The atmosphere acts like a blanket, trapping heat through the greenhouse effect. Gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor retain heat and keep Earth's surface warm enough to sustain life. Without this natural process, Earth would be much colder and less habitable.

Stabilizing Climate Conditions

Earth's atmosphere also helps stabilize weather patterns, moderating temperature fluctuations and preventing extreme temperature variations between day and night. This stability allows life to thrive in a wide range of environments, from deserts to tropical rainforests.

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