What is the air at top of mount Everest made of?

The air composition at the summit of Mount Everest (8,848 meters above sea level) is extremely thin and differs from the composition at sea level. The primary components of the air at the top of Mount Everest include:

1. Nitrogen (N2): Nitrogen makes up the majority of the air at the summit, similar to sea level. However, its percentage is slightly lower due to the reduced atmospheric pressure. Nitrogen gas is vital for plant growth and is used in various industrial processes.

2. Oxygen (O2): The oxygen concentration at the summit of Everest is much lower compared to sea level. It constitutes approximately 20.9% of the air at sea level, but at the summit, the oxygen concentration drops to around 14.2%. This significantly reduced oxygen level poses challenges to mountaineers attempting to reach the summit. Supplemental oxygen is often required for climbers to safely ascend and descend the mountain.

3. Argon (Ar): Argon is an inert gas that is also found in the atmosphere at Mount Everest. Although its percentage is small, it remains relatively constant with increasing altitude. Argon has various industrial uses, such as in incandescent light bulbs and arc welding.

4. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide levels at the top of Everest are similar to those found at sea level, with a slight increase due to human activities such as mountaineering and scientific expeditions. Carbon dioxide plays a role in regulating the Earth's climate and is essential for plant photosynthesis.

5. Water Vapor (H2O): Water vapor is present in the air at Mount Everest, although at a very low concentration due to the cold and dry conditions. Water vapor is crucial for cloud formation and precipitation. During rare instances when the weather conditions change, clouds can form at extreme altitudes near the summit.

It's important to note that the composition of the air can vary slightly at the summit depending on weather conditions, prevailing wind patterns, and other atmospheric factors.