What is Earth’s atmosphere?

Earth’s atmosphere is like a cozy blanket around our planet, keeping us warm and protected.

The atmosphere is made up of layers of air that surround Earth. Think of it like the wrapping paper you use to cover a gift, it helps keep what's inside safe from outside changes. Just as wrapping paper can be torn or crumpled, the atmosphere can change and move, especially when we have weather.

The air around us is mostly made of two things: nitrogen (about 78%) and oxygen (about 21%). The rest is a mix of other gases like carbon dioxide, argon, and tiny bits of water vapor. These gases work together to help life on Earth, like you and me, breathe and stay comfortable.

When the sun shines, it warms up the air near Earth’s surface. This warm air then rises, and cooler air from above moves in to take its place, that's how wind is made!

Sometimes, this moving air brings clouds or rain with it, which makes weather change from day to day. It’s like having a big, ever-changing blanket that wraps around Earth, keeping everything just right!