(a) Explain the term atmospheric resources (b) With specific examples, outline any six uses of atmospheric resource

Answer Details

(a) Explanation of atmospheric resources

Atmospheric resources are the useful materials and forms of energy provided by the atmosphere (the envelope of air surrounding the earth) which man can harness for his benefit. They include the gases of the air (oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen), sunlight (solar energy), wind and precipitation (rainfall/moisture). They are largely free, renewable and available everywhere.

(b) Six uses of atmospheric resources (with examples)

• Sunlight for photosynthesis and solar power: Solar energy enables green plants to make food and is trapped by solar panels to generate electricity and to dry crops and clothes.
• Oxygen for respiration: Humans and animals breathe in oxygen to stay alive, and it is needed for combustion (burning of fuels).
• Carbon dioxide for plant growth: Green plants use carbon dioxide from the air during photosynthesis to manufacture their food.
• Nitrogen for soil fertility and industry: Nitrogen is fixed into the soil by lightning and bacteria to enrich it, and is used in making fertilizers and other chemicals.
• Wind as a source of power and transport: Wind drives windmills and wind turbines to pump water and generate electricity, and moves sailing boats; it also aids pollination and seed dispersal.
• Rainfall / moisture (water supply): Precipitation supplies water for drinking, farming (rain-fed agriculture and irrigation), rivers and hydro-electric power generation.