What is air made of?

Many people believe that air is largely composed of oxygen. After all, it is what our bodies require most from the air we breathe. While oxygen is a major component of air, many other elements contribute to the air we breathe. The amount of oxygen in the air varies depending on where you travel. It accounts for approximately 21% of all air. However, the farther you get away from sea level, the fewer you'll discover. At the tops of towering mountains, for example, there is less oxygen in the air. As a result, mountain climbers frequently need to utilize oxygen tanks to reach the world's highest peaks, such as Mount Everest.

Around 78% of air is made up of another common gas known as nitrogen. If you've been doing the math in your brain, you've undoubtedly worked out that oxygen and nitrogen only make up around 99% of air. Aside from oxygen and nitrogen, air includes trace quantities of additional gases. Argon, carbon dioxide, helium, methane, and other trace gases are included. But wait, there's more! Other items found in air include dust, pollen, bacteria, spores, and even water! Water vapor in the atmosphere is a natural component of the water cycle. Humans perceive water vapor in the air as dampness, especially when the weather is humid.

Humid days are uncomfortable because the moisture in the air interferes with your body's natural cooling function. On a hot day, your body will sweat to keep cool. Sweat evaporates on your skin and exits your body, lowering your body temperature. Because there is already too much water vapor in the air on humid days, perspiration does not evaporate into the air as it should. So, even though you can't see all of these gases and minute particles in the air surrounding you, they're there and contribute to a chemical that your body requires. You can breathe easy now that you know a little bit more about the air you breathe every day!