how does the proportion of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere differ between earth and venus?

1 answer

The proportion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmospheres of Earth and Venus is significantly different.

  • Earth: The atmosphere of Earth contains about 0.04% (or around 400 parts per million) of carbon dioxide. While this is a relatively small amount, CO₂ plays a crucial role in the greenhouse effect and climate regulation.

  • Venus: In contrast, the atmosphere of Venus is composed of about 96.5% carbon dioxide. This high concentration contributes to an extremely strong greenhouse effect, leading to surface temperatures that exceed 900°F (about 480°C), making Venus the hottest planet in the solar system.

The stark difference in CO₂ concentrations is a key factor in explaining the divergent climates of the two planets.