Publication Year
2009
Source
Geochimica Et Cosmochimica Acta
DOI
Abstract
The increase in the oxidation state of the atmosphere during Earth history is well documented, but not the reasons for this process. The course of atmospheric evolution has been dominated by the effects of photosynthesis and by the composition of volcanic gases. The H(2)/H(2)O ratio of volcanic gases has remained essentially constant during most of Earth history. It is here proposed that their CO(2)/H(2)O and SO(2)/H(2)O ratios have increased with time. A simple model for the degassing and the recycling of CO(2), SO(2), and H(2)O can account for many of the major steps in the oxygenation of the atmosphere. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Research Track Category