What term refers to the gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth?

• A. Hydrosphere
• B. Lithosphere
• C. Atmosphere
• D. Biosphere

Answer: (C)

The term that refers to the gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth is "atmosphere." The atmosphere plays a crucial role in supporting life by providing essential gases such as oxygen for respiration and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. It also protects the planet from harmful solar radiation and helps regulate temperature through the greenhouse effect. Understanding the atmosphere is vital for comprehending weather patterns, climate change, and environmental science. The other options represent different components of the Earth system; the hydrosphere pertains to water in all its forms, the lithosphere refers to the solid outer layer of the Earth, and the biosphere encompasses all living organisms. Each of these components interacts with the atmosphere but is distinct from it.