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Evolution of the atmosphere.

J F Nunn

    Proceedings of the Geologists' Association. Geologists' Association
    |September 7, 2001
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Planetary atmospheres are shaped by geochemistry, gravity, and temperature. Early Earth released carbon dioxide and water, with life later producing oxygen, significantly altering atmospheric composition over geological time.

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    Area of Science:

    • Planetary Science
    • Geochemistry
    • Astrobiology

    Background:

    • Planetary atmospheres are governed by geochemical composition, temperature, and gravity.
    • Early inner planets released carbon dioxide and water; comets and meteorites added volatiles.
    • Photodissociation of water produced trace oxygen, while Earth's gravity retains oxygen but not hydrogen.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To examine the factors influencing planetary atmospheric evolution.
    • To trace the historical development of Earth's atmosphere, including the role of life.
    • To understand the long-term variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide and oxygen and their impacts.

    Main Methods:

    • Analysis of geochemical inventories and gravitational retention of gases.
    • Investigation of early outgassing and volatile additions from extraterrestrial sources.

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  • Examination of the impact of biological processes, particularly photosynthesis, on atmospheric composition.

    • Main Results:

    • Early atmospheres were rich in carbon dioxide and water vapor.
    • Photosynthesis, originating in the Archaean, led to significant oxygen production by 2000 Ma.
    • Atmospheric carbon dioxide and oxygen levels have fluctuated throughout the Phanerozoic, influencing climate and causing extinctions.

    Conclusions:

    • Earth's atmospheric evolution is a complex interplay of geological, extraterrestrial, and biological factors.
    • The rise of oxygen and fluctuations in carbon dioxide have profoundly impacted Earth's climate and history.
    • Understanding these atmospheric dynamics is crucial for comprehending planetary habitability and evolution.