Table of content

This course introduces air.

Hydrogen (H): The simplest and most abundant element in the universe, hydrogen plays a crucial role in the chemistry of life. It's a key component of water (H₂O) and organic compounds. In stars, hydrogen atoms fuse to form helium, releasing energy in the process.

Oxygen (O): Essential for the respiration of most life forms on Earth, oxygen is also a major component of water and many minerals. It's the third most abundant element in the universe by mass. Oxygen gas (O₂) in Earth's atmosphere is produced by plants, algae, and cyanobacteria through photosynthesis.

Carbon (C): The backbone of all known life, carbon can form stable bonds with many elements, including itself, which allows it to form a vast number of compounds. Carbon cycles through the Earth's ecosystem in various forms, from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to carbohydrates in living organisms.

Nitrogen (N): Making up about 78% of Earth's atmosphere, nitrogen is critical for all living things. It's a major component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, as well as nucleic acids, which carry genetic information. The nitrogen cycle describes the movement of nitrogen through ecosystems, from the atmosphere to the soil and living organisms.

From this air comes elements

Water (H₂O): A simple compound consisting of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom. It's vital for all known forms of life.

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Composed of one carbon atom double bonded to two oxygen atoms. It's a significant greenhouse gas released by burning fossil fuels and biological respiration.

Methane (CH₄): Consists of one carbon atom surrounded by four hydrogen atoms. Methane is a primary component of natural gas and a potent greenhouse gas.

Ammonia (NH₃): Made of one nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms. Ammonia is used in many industrial processes and is a key ingredient in many fertilizers.

Ethanol (C₂H₅OH): Comprises two carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one hydroxyl group (OH). Ethanol is commonly used as a solvent, in alcoholic beverages, and as a biofuel.

Nitric Acid (HNO₃): Consists of one hydrogen atom, one nitrogen atom, and three oxygen atoms. It's a highly corrosive and toxic acid used in the production of fertilizers and explosives.

Carbon Monoxide (CO): Contains one carbon atom triple bonded to an oxygen atom. It's a colorless, odorless gas that is poisonous to humans and animals in high concentrations.

Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH): Comprises two carbon atoms, four hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. It's the main component of vinegar and is used in the chemical industry as a solvent and reagent.