1. Which of the following best explains how Earth’s atmosphere protects life on the planet?

It becomes less dense at higher altitudes.

It consists of different layers of different thicknesses.

It allows visible light to pass through completely.

It contains gases that filter out ultraviolet radiation.

2. Matthew has recently learned that Earth’s atmosphere is made up of nitrogen, oxygen, water vapor, and many other trace elements. Which of the following is NOT a way in which gases in the atmosphere are helpful to life on Earth?

Carbon dioxide insulates Earth


Protection against radiation from the Sun

Barrier against violent storms and lightning

Oxygen stays within the atmosphere

3. Which of the following is a way the atmosphere helps maintain life on Earth?

The atmosphere helps maintain a moderate temperature.


The atmosphere draws water vapor from outer space.

The atmosphere has air currents that rotate the planet.

The atmosphere contains some gases that are toxic.

keep her skin protected. She wonders what else the atmosphere does that she takes for granted each day. The atmosphere allows which of the following to happen?

Meteorites to hit Earth’s surface


Chloroplasts producing oxygen

Reflection from the ocean's surface

Precipitation and the water cycle


5. Gases in the atmosphere are helpful to life on Earth because they offer protection from which of the following?

Poisonous gases from stars


Harmful radiation from the Sun

Collisions with other planets

Violent storms and lightning


6. Without the atmosphere, life on Earth would not be possible. Which of the following is NOT an explanation for how Earth’s atmosphere protects life on the planet?

It allows visible light to pass through completely.


It contains gases that filter out ultraviolet radiation.

It keeps Earth warm by trapping in heat.

It protects life from ultraviolet rays of light.


7. Alexander applies sunscreen to help provide protection from ultraviolet radiation. With what does the atmosphere provide protection for Earth?

Thick layers of ice clouds

Ozone in the upper atmosphere

Water vapor in the lower atmosphere

The reflective surface of the ocean


8. The atmosphere is often referred to as a blanket that covers Earth, keeping out harmful things and protecting life inside. Which of the following best represents a way in which the atmosphere helps maintain life on Earth?

The atmosphere provides air for oxygen.

The atmosphere controls the distance from the Sun.

The atmosphere helps rotate the planet.

The atmosphere provides protection from disease.


9. Which two gases in the atmosphere are essential to life on Earth?

Nitrogen and helium

Carbon dioxide and oxygen

Neon and argon

Helium and hydrogen


10. The atmosphere is made up of four different layers: the thermosphere, mesosphere, stratosphere, and troposphere. Which of the following is NOT true regarding the composition and structure of the the atmosphere?

The structure maintains safety against harmful UV rays.

The composition allows necessary gases for life on Earth.

The atmosphere allows Earth to rotate around the Sun.

The atmosphere is made up of nitrogen, oxygen, and a variety of gases.