Is Earth Getting Heavier?

The video explores whether Earth is getting heavier, explaining that while Earth gains about 40,000 metric tons of mass annually from cosmic dust, it loses more mass through atmospheric escape of gases like hydrogen and helium. This results in a net loss of 56,600 metric tons of mass each year. The video clarifies that Earth's mass changes are not due to human population growth but rather cosmic and atmospheric processes.

Why does the increase in human population not make Earth heavier?

• Because humans are made of lightweight materials.

• Because Earth is a closed system and mass is converted into different forms.

• Because the atmosphere absorbs the extra weight.

• Because Earth's gravity decreases with more people.

How much mass does Earth gain annually from cosmic dust?

• 1,000 metric tons

• 10,000 metric tons

• 100,000 metric tons

• 40,000 metric tons

What is the primary source of Earth's mass gain?

• Cosmic dust from space

• Volcanic eruptions

• Oceanic expansion

• Human population growth

What is atmospheric escape?

• The process of air pressure increasing

• The process of gases being trapped in Earth's atmosphere

• The process of gases escaping Earth's gravity

• The process of water vapor forming clouds

Which gases are primarily lost from Earth's atmosphere?

• Hydrogen and helium

• Argon and neon

• Carbon dioxide and methane

• Oxygen and nitrogen