Oxygen is one of the most crucial aspects of sustaining living beings on Earth. It is the backbone of life processes on the cellular level. But what if the levels of Oxygen deplete in Earth’s atmosphere? What will happen in this case? And it will probably happen in a billion years. So, you need not worry about Earth without Oxygen, but let’s learn how the planet looks when this occurs.
The Earth’s Oxygen Cycle
Most of Earth’s Oxygen is produced by plants and algae—some cyanobacteria are also responsible for this process. Again, the produced oxygen is consumed by other life forms and human activities, such as combustion and oxidation. So, there is a balance between the oxygen produced by nature and that which is consumed. However, the Earth will run out of Oxygen in a billion years, leaving a hydrocarbon-rich environment. This is because lower carbon dioxide levels will decrease plants’ oxygen production.
Present Oxygen Levels
At present, the Earth’s surface comprises 21% Oxygen. It is a significant number that has been stable for quite a while. Although no major problem can reduce this percentage, civilization still needs to be more aware of environmental actions. Thus, it is the responsibility of human beings to maintain a balance between progress and resource utilization.
Factors That Could Threaten Earth’s Oxygen Supply
Apart from reducing carbon dioxide levels, which will happen in a billion years, there are other threats to the present, such as oxygen levels on Earth. The first is the loss of natural forests, which produce a significant portion of Earth’s Oxygen. Then, phytoplankton and marine ecosystems are disrupted due to human activities.
Pollution is another major problem that affects the natural ecosystem. Lastly, non-human calamities, such as volcanic eruptions or asteroid impacts, can reduce Earth’s oxygen levels. So, plenty of ways contribute to the loss of this pivotal element of life’s existence.
Could Humans Use Up All the Oxygen?
It is not physically possible for humans to consume all the Oxygen for basic life necessities. Also, there is a difference between oxygen depletion in a particular area and the global level. One results from urbanization and increased pollutants, while the other is natural.
If Oxygen Levels Dropped Today!
It would be a catastrophe for the entire civilization as people would suffer for a single breath. It will lead to asphyxiation. Also, the ecosystem will be disrupted, with no biodiversity. So, overall, it will not be a good day for life forms on Earth. Also, no technology can produce Oxygen like plants on a large scale.
Can Earth Run Out of Oxygen?
Yes, Earth will run out of Oxygen in a billion years. But today, there is plenty of it in the atmosphere. So, there is no need to worry about it. However, one should always appreciate the cause that focuses on protecting forests, oceans, and the environment.
A Life On Earth without Oxygen
Suppose you’re visiting the Earth in the future—a time of a billion years from now. Surprisingly, you will find life but not the ones like today. The microorganisms will be anaerobic and the only ones left. Furthermore, there will be no more Ozone layer so the entire planet will be very hot. Thus, it will become a planet that is not even remotely similar to present-day Earth.
Key Takeaways About Earth without Oxygen
- Earth will run out of Oxygen in a billion years, leading to a hydrocarbon-rich environment.
- Loss of natural forests, disruption of phytoplanktons and marine ecosystems, pollution, and non-human calamities can reduce Oxygen levels.
- Humans can’t consume all the Oxygen for basic life necessities.
- If oxygen levels drop today, it will lead to asphyxiation, ecosystem disruption, and no biodiversity.
- No technology can produce Oxygen plants on a large scale.
- Earth will run out of Oxygen in a billion years, but current levels are sufficient.
- In a billion years, life will be anaerobic, and the planet will be hot and full of harmful radiation, unlike present-day Earth.
