Interactions of Earth's Atmosphere and Hydrosphere

A layer of ozone gas in the stratosphere absorbs high-energy ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This protects living things on Earth’s surface from these harmful rays. Without ozone for protection, only the simplest life forms would be able to live on Earth.

The atmosphere moderates Earth’s climate and makes it more hospitable to living things. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor, trap heat in the atmosphere. Without these gases, Earth’s temperatures would be frigid at night and scorching during the day.

Gas molecules in the atmosphere transmit sound waves to our ears and allow us to hear. Without the atmosphere, Earth would be a virtually silent place.