What is the significance of the atmosphere of our planet for living things?

Without the protective layer of gases that make up the Earth’s atmosphere, the harsh conditions of the solar system would turn the planet into a barren lifeless husk like the moon. The Earth’s atmosphere protects and supports the inhabitants of the planet by providing warmth and absorbing harmful sunlight. In addition to providing oxygen and carbon dioxide that living things need to survive, the atmosphere captures solar energy and protects against many cosmic hazards. One of the most important benefits that the atmosphere provides is maintaining the Earth’s temperature. Molecules in the atmosphere absorb energy from the sun as it arrives, spreading that heat throughout the planet.