What are the primary components of air and their respective percentages?

The primary components of air consist of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, and carbon dioxide, with nitrogen being the most abundant. The correct choice states that nitrogen makes up approximately 78.89% of the atmosphere, which aligns with established scientific data. Oxygen, a critical component for combustion and respiration, constitutes about 20.94%, while argon is present at about 0.94%. Carbon dioxide exists in the atmosphere at very low concentrations, typically around 0.04%, and is often described as "very small."

Understanding these percentages is crucial in many fields, including environmental science, mining, and rescue operations, as it affects safety protocols and emergency procedures in areas where air quality is monitored. This correct representation emphasizes the accurate proportions of gases in the atmosphere, essential for training on air quality and recognizing conditions that could lead to hazards in a mine rescue context.