Final answer:
The troposphere contains approximately 75% (D) of the atmosphere's total mass, making it the densest layer of Earth's atmosphere that supports weather events and sustains life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Troposphere contains about what percentage of the atmosphere's total mass? The correct answer to this question is D) 75%. The structure of Earth's atmosphere is divided into several layers, with the troposphere being the lowest one. This layer extends up to roughly 12 kilometers above sea level and contains approximately 80% of the earth's atmospheric mass. Most weather events originate in this layer, and it is also the region where air density and temperature decrease with height.
The atmosphere's total mass is about 5 × 10¹ kilograms, with the troposphere comprising a significant portion of it. Therefore, the troposphere is critical for Earth's climate system and supports life by hosting the conditions necessary for our planet's diverse ecosystems.