Curious Minute answer

What common element makes up about 78% of Earth's atmosphere?

The answer

Nitrogen

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Why it's right

Nitrogen makes up about 78 percent of Earth's dry atmosphere by volume. Oxygen comes next at about 21 percent. The remaining gases, including argon and carbon dioxide, account for a much smaller share.

NASA: earthfact.html

Did you know?

Argon is the third-most abundant gas in Earth's dry atmosphere. It accounts for just under one percent by volume.

NASA: earthfact.html

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Sources: NASA