1
2 marks
Complete the following sentence:
The atmosphere is primarily composed of two gases: approximately 78% is __________ and 21% is __________.
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Syllabus Edition
First teaching 2024
First exams 2026
Introduction to the Atmosphere (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS): HL): Exam Questions
1 hour23 questions
2
1 mark
Outline one natural (non-human) input to atmospheric systems.
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3
1 mark
State the atmospheric layer in which most clouds form.
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4
3 marks
List three greenhouse gases.
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5
2 marks
Outline the role of gravity in atmospheric structure.
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6
2 marks
Briefly explain the change in atmospheric pressure with increasing altitude.
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7
2 marks
Define the term Hothouse Earth.
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8
1 mark
State why the ozone layer is important for life on Earth.
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9
1 mark
State the layer of the atmosphere that contains the ozone layer.
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10
1 mark
Describe one way early life on Earth changed the atmosphere.
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1
4 marks
Describe the role of the natural greenhouse effect in regulating Earth's temperature.
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2
2 marks
In relation to processes taking place within the atmospheric system:
State two transfers of energy.
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3
2 marks
In relation to processes taking place within the atmospheric system:
State two transformations of matter.
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4
4 marks
Outline how human activities affect two named atmospheric components.
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5
2 marks
Describe how atmospheric temperature changes with altitude in the troposphere and stratosphere.
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6
3 marks
Explain why temperature increases with altitude in the stratosphere.
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7
3 marks
Explain how positive feedback mechanisms contribute to the Hothouse Earth scenario.
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8
4 marks
Compare and contrast the troposphere and stratosphere.
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9
2 marks
Describe how the composition of the early atmosphere differed from today’s atmosphere.
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1
7 marks
Explain the role of the atmosphere in maintaining temperatures that can sustain life across the surface of the Earth.
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2
9 marks
Discuss the role of greenhouse gases and aerosols in regulating Earth's climate.
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3
7 marks
Explain how Milankovitch cycles contribute to long-term climate change.
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4
9 marks
Discuss how changes in atmospheric composition have influenced the evolution of life on Earth, and vice versa.
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