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The composition of the Earth's early atmosphere was very different from the composition of the Earth's atmosphere today - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
The composition of the Earth's early atmosphere was very different from the composition of the Earth's atmosphere today. One of the planets has an atmosphere similar... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The composition of the Earth's early atmosphere was very different from the composition of the Earth's atmosphere today - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain which planet has an atmosphere similar to that of the Earth’s early atmosphere.
Answer
The planet Venus has an atmosphere that is somewhat similar to the Earth's early atmosphere. Both atmospheres contain high levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂), with very little oxygen (O₂). This makes the atmosphere thick and contributes to the greenhouse effect, resulting in high surface temperatures. This similarity suggests that conditions on Venus might resemble those on Earth before life began to thrive.
Step 2
Step 3
This reaction can be carried out in the laboratory by igniting a mixture of hydrogen and air in a test tube.
Answer
When hydrogen is ignited in the presence of oxygen (from air), a combustion reaction occurs, producing water vapor and releasing energy in the form of heat and light. This reaction is exothermic and must be conducted with care due to the potential for explosions.