What is the layer of gases that surrounds Earth called?

The layer of gases that surrounds Earth is called the atmosphere. This is a crucial component of our planet, composed primarily of nitrogen, oxygen, and trace amounts of other gases. The atmosphere plays a vital role in supporting life by providing necessary gases for respiration, protecting organisms from harmful solar radiation, and regulating temperature through the greenhouse effect.

In contrast, the hydrosphere refers to all the water on Earth, including oceans, rivers, and lakes. The biosphere encompasses all living organisms and their interactions with the environment. The stratosphere is a specific layer within the atmosphere, located above the troposphere, and it contains the ozone layer, which is important for filtering UV radiation. Understanding the distinction between these layers and spheres is essential for grasping Earth's complex systems and the interactions that sustain life.