Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134074254
ISBN 13: 978-0-13407-425-2

Chapter 22 - Give It Some Thought - Page 700: 3

Answer

The four primordial processes that led to the formation of the atmosphere as we know it today, which allowed life to form on Earth, are: a. Outgassing: Volcanic activity released gases from Earth's interior, including water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and ammonia, into the early atmosphere. b. Primordial atmosphere: The early atmosphere was composed of water vapor, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and smaller amounts of other gases, shaped by the outgassing process. c. Condensation of water vapor: As the Earth's surface cooled, water vapor in the atmosphere condensed to form the first oceans, shaping the hydrosphere. d. Photosynthesis: The evolution of photosynthesizing bacteria and later cyanobacteria allowed for the accumulation of oxygen in the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis.

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