GCSE Chemistry
Chemistry of the Atmosphere
Chemistry of the Atmosphere is a core strand in Chemistry. Work through the topics below in any order, or follow your course — each guide includes explanations, common mistakes and exam-style practice.
Topic guides
Earth's Early Atmosphere
The Earth's early atmosphere is thought to have been formed by gases released from volcanoes.
Open guideGreenhouse Gases & Climate Change
Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapour, absorb infrared radiation that is re-emitted from the Earth's surface, trapping heat in the
Open guideAtmospheric Pollutants
In addition to greenhouse gases, human activities can release other pollutants into the atmosphere.
Open guideCarbon Footprints
A carbon footprint is the total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life cycle of a product, service, or event.
Open guide
Revision strategy
Students often slip on the details explained in our guides — read the “common mistakes” section in each topic.
- Alternate between reading a guide and doing timed questions — don’t only re-read notes.
- Return to this hub anytime; new guides appear automatically as we publish them.