Because of Earth's relatively small mass, our planet's atmosphere is composed
A) Of a large amount of carbon dioxide.
B) Of the same percentages of gases that exist throughout the solar system.
C) Of very little hydrogen and helium.
D) Of gases similar to those of the Jovian planets.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Earth's relatively small mass and gravity are not sufficient to retain light gases like hydrogen and helium, leading to an atmosphere with very little of these gases compared to the larger Jovian planets.

Because of Earth's Relatively Small Mass, Our Planet's Atmosphere Is