where the pressure is essentially zero?
2007-08-24 12:27:02 · 7 answers · asked by Helen 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Gravity.
2007-08-24 12:34:19 · answer #1 · answered by idontseethepoint 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
As many are replying, gravity. However, some gases escape at typical atmospheric temperatures, as their mean velocities can exceed the escape velocity. The earth's atmosphere was formed very early as some species of gases escaped, while the slower molecules were confined to earth's gravitational prison.
2007-08-24 13:08:25 · answer #2 · answered by Mick 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, gravity is the most obvious answer to your question. However, the magnetosphere plays a very significant role in keeping the solar wind from stripping away earth's atmosphere.
2007-08-24 15:24:16 · answer #3 · answered by Frank N 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As ALL matter has 'Mass', it's the Earth's Gravity holding the gases around itself. (The Law of Gravity).
2007-08-24 15:23:44 · answer #4 · answered by Norrie 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gravity keeps the atmosphere in place.
2007-08-24 12:47:16 · answer #5 · answered by Betty 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Gravity and Van Der Waals forces.
2007-08-24 12:40:38 · answer #6 · answered by Brian L 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
the weak gravitational force.
2007-08-24 12:52:43 · answer #7 · answered by nucleardiver 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋